Targeted compositions

ABSTRACT

The invention provides certain nucleic acids (e.g., double stranded siRNA molecules), as well as conjugates that comprise a targeting moiety, a double stranded siRNA, and optional linking groups. Certain embodiments also provide synthetic methods useful for preparing the conjugates. The conjugates are useful to target therapeutic double stranded siRNA to the liver and to treat liver diseases including hepatitis (e.g. hepatitis B and hepatitis D).

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This patent application claims the benefit of priority of U.S.application Ser. No. 62/525,071, filed Jun. 26, 2017 and of U.S.application Ser. No. 62/484,247, filed Apr. 11, 2017, which applicationsare herein incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

A number of diseases are specific to the liver, for example Hepatitis Band nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Accordingly, it would bebeneficial to have therapeutic compositions that can be targetedprimarily to the liver, kidney, heart, pancreas or other organs inliving subjects.

Nucleic acids, including siRNA are useful as therapeutic agents.

Currently there is a need for compositions and methods that can be usedto deliver (e.g. target) therapeutic nucleic acids, such as doublestranded siRNA, in living subjects.

BRIEF SUMMARY

The invention provides nucleic acid molecules (e.g., therapeutic doublestranded siRNA molecules), as well as compounds, compositions andmethods that can be used to target such nucleic acids (e.g. to theliver).

Accordingly, in one aspect this invention provides a double strandedsiRNA molecule selected from the group consisting of siRNA 1 (SEQ IDNO:1 and 2), 2 (SEQ ID NO:3 and 4), 3 (SEQ ID NO:5 and 6), 4 (SEQ IDNO:7 and 8), 5 (SEQ ID NO:9 and 10), 6 (SEQ ID NO:11 and 12), 7 (SEQ IDNO:13 and 14), 8 (SEQ ID NO:15 and 16), 9 (SEQ ID NO:17 and 18), 10 (SEQID NO:19 and 20), 11 (SEQ ID NO:21 and 22), 12 (SEQ ID NO:23 and 24), 13(SEQ ID NO:25 and 26), 14 (SEQ ID NO:27 and 28), 15 (SEQ ID NO:29 and30), 16 (SEQ ID NO:31 and 32), 17 (SEQ ID NO:33 and 34), 18 (SEQ IDNO:35 and 36), 19 (SEQ ID NO:37 and 38), 20 (SEQ ID NO:39 and 40), 21(SEQ ID NO:41 and 42), 22 (SEQ ID NO:43 and 44), 23 (SEQ ID NO:45 and46), 24 (SEQ ID NO:47 and 48), 25 (SEQ ID NO:49 and 50), 26 (SEQ IDNO:51 and 52), 27 (SEQ ID NO:53 and 54), 28 (SEQ ID NO:55 and 56), 29(SEQ ID NO:57 and 58), 30 (SEQ ID NO:59 and 60), 31 (SEQ ID NO:61 and62), 32 (SEQ ID NO:63 and 64), 33 (SEQ ID NO:65 and 66), 34 (SEQ IDNO:67 and 68), 35 (SEQ ID NO:69 and 70), 36 (SEQ ID NO:71 and 72) and 37(SEQ ID NO:73 and 74).

Another aspect this invention provides a compound of formula I

wherein:

R¹ a is targeting ligand;

L¹ is absent or a linking group;

L² is absent or a linking group;

R² is a double stranded siRNA molecule selected from the double strandedsiRNA of Table 1;

the ring A is absent, a 3-20 membered cycloalkyl, a 5-20 membered aryl,a 5-20 membered heteroaryl, or a 3-20 membered heterocycloalkyl;

each R^(A) is independently selected from the group consisting ofhydrogen, hydroxy, CN, F, Cl, Br, I, —C₁₋₂ alkyl-OR^(B), C₁₋₁₀ alkylC₂₋₁₀ alkenyl, and C₂₋₁₀ alkynyl; wherein the C₁₋₁₀ alkyl C₂₋₁₀ alkenyl,and C₂₋₁₀ alkynyl are optionally substituted with one or more groupsindependently selected from halo, hydroxy, and C₁₋₃ alkoxy;

R^(B) is hydrogen, a protecting group, a covalent bond to a solidsupport, or a bond to a linking group that is bound to a solid support;and

n is 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10;

or a salt thereof.

Another aspect of the invention provides GalNAc conjugates that compriseone of the siRNAs described herein, which conjugates are not limited toconjugates that comprise the ligand-linkers disclosed herein. Forexample, an aspect of the invention provides a GalNAc conjugate ofFormula X:

A-B—C   (X)

wherein A is a targeting ligand;B is an optional linker; andC is an siRNA molecule described herein.

The therapeutic double stranded siRNA described herein, as well as,compounds and compositions comprising such siRNA, may be used to treatHepatitis B virus and Hepatitis B virus/Hepatitis D virus.

The invention also provides synthetic intermediates and methodsdisclosed herein that are useful to prepare compounds of formula I.

Other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will beapparent to one of skill in the art from the following detaileddescription and figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1: Illustrates an intermediate compound of formula Ie, wherein atargeting ligand/linker is bound to a solid phase support, and whereinPg¹ is the protecting group DMTr.

FIG. 2: Illustrates a representative compound of formula Id wherein atargeting ligand is bound to a solid phase support, with a nucleic acidcovalently bound.

FIG. 3: Illustrates a representative compound of formula Id, wherein atargeting ligand-nucleic acid conjugate has been cleaved from a solidphase support and deprotected to provide the compound of formula I.

In the application, including Figures, Examples and Schemes, it is to beunderstood that an oligonucleotide can be a double stranded siRNAmolecule as described in Table 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As used herein, the following terms have the meanings ascribed to themunless specified otherwise.

The term “conjugate” as used herein includes compounds of formula (I)that comprise an oligonucleotide (e.g., an siRNA molecule) linked to atargeting ligand. Thus, the terms compound and conjugate may be usedherein interchangeably.

The term “small-interfering RNA” or “siRNA” as used herein refers todouble stranded RNA (i.e., duplex RNA) that is capable of reducing orinhibiting the expression of a target gene or sequence (e.g., bymediating the degradation or inhibiting the translation of mRNAs whichare complementary to the siRNA sequence) when the siRNA is in the samecell as the target gene or sequence. The siRNA may have substantial orcomplete identity to the target gene or sequence, or may comprise aregion of mismatch (i.e., a mismatch motif). In certain embodiments, thesiRNAs may be about 19-25 (duplex) nucleotides in length, and ispreferably about 20-24, 21-22, or 21-23 (duplex) nucleotides in length.siRNA duplexes may comprise 3′ overhangs of about 1 to about 4nucleotides or about 2 to about 3 nucleotides and 5′ phosphate termini.Examples of siRNA include, without limitation, a double-strandedpolynucleotide molecule assembled from two separate stranded molecules,wherein one strand is the sense strand and the other is thecomplementary antisense strand.

In certain embodiments, the 5′ and/or 3′ overhang on one or both strandsof the siRNA comprises 1-4 (e.g., 1, 2, 3, or 4) modified and/orunmodified deoxythymidine (t or dT) nucleotides, 1-4 (e.g., 1, 2, 3, or4) modified (e.g., 2′OMe) and/or unmodified uridine (U) ribonucleotides,and/or 1-4 (e.g., 1, 2, 3, or 4) modified (e.g., 2′OMe) and/orunmodified ribonucleotides or deoxyribonucleotides havingcomplementarity to the target sequence (e.g., 3′overhang in theantisense strand) or the complementary strand thereof (e.g., 3′ overhangin the sense strand).

Preferably, siRNA are chemically synthesized. siRNA can also begenerated by cleavage of longer dsRNA (e.g., dsRNA greater than about 25nucleotides in length) with the E. coli RNase III or Dicer. Theseenzymes process the dsRNA into biologically active siRNA (see, e.g.,Yang et al., Proc. Nat. Acad. Sci. USA, 99:9942-9947 (2002); Calegari etal., Proc. Nat. Acad. Sci. USA, 99:14236 (2002); Byrom et al., AmbionTechNotes, 10(1):4-6 (2003); Kawasaki et al., Nucleic Acids Res.,31:981-987 (2003); Knight et al., Science, 293:2269-2271 (2001); andRobertson et al., J. Biol. Chem., 243:82 (1968)). Preferably, dsRNA areat least 50 nucleotides to about 100, 200, 300, 400, or 500 nucleotidesin length. A dsRNA may be as long as 1000, 1500, 2000, 5000 nucleotidesin length, or longer. The dsRNA can encode for an entire gene transcriptor a partial gene transcript. In certain instances, siRNA may be encodedby a plasmid (e.g., transcribed as sequences that automatically foldinto duplexes with hairpin loops).

The phrase “inhibiting expression of a target gene” refers to theability of a siRNA of the invention to silence, reduce, or inhibitexpression of a target gene. To examine the extent of gene silencing, atest sample (e.g., a biological sample from an organism of interestexpressing the target gene or a sample of cells in culture expressingthe target gene) is contacted with a siRNA that silences, reduces, orinhibits expression of the target gene. Expression of the target gene inthe test sample is compared to expression of the target gene in acontrol sample (e.g., a biological sample from an organism of interestexpressing the target gene or a sample of cells in culture expressingthe target gene) that is not contacted with the siRNA. Control samples(e.g., samples expressing the target gene) may be assigned a value of100%. In particular embodiments, silencing, inhibition, or reduction ofexpression of a target gene is achieved when the value of the testsample relative to the control sample (e.g., buffer only, an siRNAsequence that targets a different gene, a scrambled siRNA sequence,etc.) is about 100%, 99%, 98%, 97%, 96%, 95%, 94%, 93%, 92%, 91%, 90%,89%, 88%, 87%, 86%, 85%, 84%, 83%, 82%, 81%, 80%, 79%, 78%, 77%, 76%,75%, 70%, 65%, 60%, 55%, 50%, 45%, 40%, 35%, 30%, 25%, 20%, 15%, 10%,5%,or 0%. Suitable assays include, without limitation, examination ofprotein or mRNA levels using techniques known to those of skill in theart, such as, e.g., dot blots, Northern blots, in situ hybridization,ELISA, immunoprecipitation, enzyme function, as well as phenotypicassays known to those of skill in the art.

The term “synthetic activating group” refers to a group that can beattached to an atom to activate that atom to allow it to form a covalentbond with another reactive group. It is understood that the nature ofthe synthetic activating group may depend on the atom that it isactivating. For example, when the synthetic activating group is attachedto an oxygen atom, the synthetic activating group is a group that willactivate that oxygen atom to form a bond (e.g. an ester, carbamate, orether bond) with another reactive group. Such synthetic activatinggroups are known. Examples of synthetic activating groups that can beattached to an oxygen atom include, but are not limited to, acetate,succinate, triflate, and mesylate. When the synthetic activating groupis attached to an oxygen atom of a carboxylic acid, the syntheticactivating group can be a group that is derivable from a known couplingreagent (e.g. a known amide coupling reagent). Such coupling reagentsare known. Examples of such coupling reagents include, but are notlimited to, N,N′-Dicyclohexylcarbodimide (DCC), hydroxybenzotriazole(HOBt), N-(3-Dimethylaminopropyl)-N′-ethylcarbonate (EDC),(Benzotriazol-1-yloxy)tris(dimethylamino)phosphonium hexafluorophosphate(BOP), benzotriazol-1-yl-oxytripyrrolidinophosphoniumhexafluorophosphate (PyBOP) orO-benzotriazol-1-yl-N,N,N′,N′-tetramethyluronium hexafluorophosphate(HBTU).

An “effective amount” or “therapeutically effective amount” of atherapeutic nucleic acid such as siRNA is an amount sufficient toproduce the desired effect, e.g., an inhibition of expression of atarget sequence in comparison to the normal expression level detected inthe absence of a siRNA. In particular embodiments, inhibition ofexpression of a target gene or target sequence is achieved when thevalue obtained with a siRNA relative to the control (e.g., buffer only,an siRNA sequence that targets a different gene, a scrambled siRNAsequence, etc.) is about 100%, 99%, 98%, 97%, 96%, 95%, 94%, 93%, 92%,91%, 90%, 89%, 88%, 87%, 86%, 85%, 84%, 83%, 82%, 81%, 80%, 79%, 78%,77%, 76%, 75%, 70%, 65%, 60%, 55%, 50%, 45%, 40%, 35%, 30%, 25%, 20%,15%, 10%, 5%, or 0%. Suitable assays for measuring the expression of atarget gene or target sequence include, but are not limited to,examination of protein or mRNA levels using techniques known to those ofskill in the art, such as, e.g., dot blots, Northern blots, in situhybridization, ELISA, immunoprecipitation, enzyme function, as well asphenotypic assays known to those of skill in the art.

The term “nucleic acid” as used herein refers to a polymer containing atleast two nucleotides (i.e., deoxyribonucleotides or ribonucleotides) ineither single- or double-stranded form and includes DNA and RNA.“Nucleotides” contain a sugar deoxyribose (DNA) or ribose (RNA), a base,and a phosphate group. Nucleotides are linked together through thephosphate groups. “Bases” include purines and pyrimidines, which furtherinclude natural compounds adenine, thymine, guanine, cytosine, uracil,inosine, and natural analogs, and synthetic derivatives of purines andpyrimidines, which include, but are not limited to, modifications whichplace new reactive groups such as, but not limited to, amines, alcohols,thiols, carboxylates, and alkylhalides. Nucleic acids include nucleicacids containing known nucleotide analogs or modified backbone residuesor linkages, which are synthetic, naturally occurring, and non-naturallyoccurring, and which have similar binding properties as the referencenucleic acid. Examples of such analogs and/or modified residues include,without limitation, phosphorothioates, phosphoramidates, methylphosphonates, chiral-methyl phosphonates, 2′-O-methyl ribonucleotides,and peptide-nucleic acids (PNAs). Additionally, nucleic acids caninclude one or more UNA moieties.

The term “nucleic acid” includes any oligonucleotide or polynucleotide,with fragments containing up to 60 nucleotides generally termedoligonucleotides, and longer fragments termed polynucleotides. Adeoxyribooligonucleotide consists of a 5-carbon sugar called deoxyribosejoined covalently to phosphate at the 5′ and 3′ carbons of this sugar toform an alternating, unbranched polymer. DNA may be in the form of,e.g., antisense molecules, plasmid DNA, pre-condensed DNA, a PCRproduct, vectors, expression cassettes, chimeric sequences, chromosomalDNA, or derivatives and combinations of these groups. Aribooligonucleotide consists of a similar repeating structure where the5-carbon sugar is ribose. RNA may be in the form, for example, of smallinterfering RNA (siRNA), Dicer-substrate dsRNA, small hairpin RNA(shRNA), asymmetrical interfering RNA (aiRNA), microRNA (miRNA), mRNA,tRNA, rRNA, tRNA, viral RNA (vRNA), and combinations thereof.Accordingly, in the context of this invention, the terms“polynucleotide” and “oligonucleotide” refer to a polymer or oligomer ofnucleotide or nucleoside monomers consisting of naturally-occurringbases, sugars and intersugar (backbone) linkages. The terms“polynucleotide” and “oligonucleotide” also include polymers oroligomers comprising non-naturally occurring monomers, or portionsthereof, which function similarly. Such modified or substitutedoligonucleotides are often preferred over native forms because ofproperties such as, for example, enhanced cellular uptake, reducedimmunogenicity, and increased stability in the presence of nucleases.

Unless otherwise indicated, a particular nucleic acid sequence alsoimplicitly encompasses conservatively modified variants thereof (e.g.,degenerate codon substitutions), alleles, orthologs, SNPs, andcomplementary sequences as well as the sequence explicitly indicated.Specifically, degenerate codon substitutions may be achieved bygenerating sequences in which the third position of one or more selected(or all) codons is substituted with mixed-base and/or deoxyinosineresidues (Batzer et al., Nucleic Acid Res., 19:5081 (1991); Ohtsuka etal., J. Biol. Chem., 260:2605-2608 (1985); Rossolini et al., Mol. Cell.Probes, 8:91-98 (1994)).

The term “gene” refers to a nucleic acid (e.g., DNA or RNA) sequencethat comprises partial length or entire length coding sequencesnecessary for the production of a polypeptide or precursor polypeptide.

“Gene product,” as used herein, refers to a product of a gene such as anRNA transcript or a polypeptide.

As used herein, the term “alkyl”, by itself or as part of anothersubstituent, means, unless otherwise stated, a straight or branchedchain hydrocarbon radical, having the number of carbon atoms designated(i.e., C₁₋₈ means one to eight carbons). Examples of alkyl groupsinclude methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, iso-propyl, n-butyl, t-butyl,iso-butyl, sec-butyl, n-pentyl, n-hexyl, n-heptyl, n-octyl, and thelike. The term “alkenyl” refers to an unsaturated alkyl radical havingone or more double bonds. Similarly, the term “alkynyl” refers to anunsaturated alkyl radical having one or more triple bonds. Examples ofsuch unsaturated alkyl groups include vinyl, 2-propenyl, crotyl,2-isopentenyl, 2-(butadienyl), 2,4-pentadienyl, 3-(1,4-pentadienyl),ethynyl, 1- and 3-propynyl, 3-butynyl, and the higher homologs andisomers.

The term “alkylene” by itself or as part of another substituent means adivalent radical derived from an alkane (including straight and branchedalkanes), as exemplified by —CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂— and —CH(CH₃)CH₂CH₂—.

The term “cycloalkyl,” “carbocyclic,” or “carbocycle” refers tohydrocarbon ringsystem having 3 to 20 overall number of ring atoms(e.g., 3-20 membered cycloalkyl is a cycloalkyl with 3 to 20 ring atoms,or C₃₋₂₀ cycloalkyl is a cycloalkyl with 3-20 carbon ring atoms) and fora 3-5 membered cycloalkyl being fully saturated or having no more thanone double bond between ring vertices and for a 6 membered cycloalkyl orlarger being fully saturated or having no more than two double bondsbetween ring vertices. As used herein, “cycloalkyl,” “carbocyclic,” or“carbocycle” is also meant to refer to bicyclic, polycyclic andspirocyclic hydrocarbon ring system, such as, for example,bicyclo[2.2.1]heptane, pinane, bicyclo[2.2.2]octane, adamantane,norborene, spirocyclic C₅₋₁₂ alkane, etc. As used herein, the terms,“alkenyl,” “alkynyl,” “cycloalkyl,”, “carbocycle,” and “carbocyclic,”are meant to include mono and polyhalogenated variants thereof.

The term “heterocycloalkyl,” “heterocyclic,” or “heterocycle” refers toa saturated or partially unsaturated ring system radical having theoverall having from 3-20 ring atoms (e.g., 3-20 memberedheterocycloalkyl is a heterocycloalkyl radical with 3-20 ring atoms, aC₂₋₁₉ heterocycloalkyl is a heterocycloalkyl having 3-10 ring atoms withbetween 2-19 ring atoms being carbon) that contain from one to tenheteroatoms selected from N, O, and S, wherein the nitrogen and sulfuratoms are optionally oxidized, nitrogen atom(s) are optionallyquaternized, as ring atoms. Unless otherwise stated, a“heterocycloalkyl,” “heterocyclic,” or “heterocycle” ring can be amonocyclic, a bicyclic, spirocyclic or a polycylic ring system. Nonlimiting examples of “heterocycloalkyl,” “heterocyclic,” or“heterocycle” rings include pyrrolidine, piperidine, N-methylpiperidine,imidazolidine, pyrazolidine, butyrolactam, valerolactam,imidazolidinone, hydantoin, dioxolane, phthalimide, piperidine,pyrimidine-2,4(1H,3H)-dione, 1,4-dioxane, morpholine, thiomorpholine,thiomorpholine-S-oxide, thiomorpholine-S,S-oxide, piperazine, pyran,pyridone, 3-pyrroline, thiopyran, pyrone, tetrahydrofuran,tetrhydrothiophene, quinuclidine, tropane, 2-azaspiro[3.3]heptane,(1R,5S)-3-azabicyclo[3.2.1]octane, (1s,4s)-2-azabicyclo[2.2.2]octane,(1R,4R)-2-oxa-5-azabicyclo[2.2.2]octane and the like A“heterocycloalkyl,” “heterocyclic,” or “heterocycle” group can beattached to the remainder of the molecule through one or more ringcarbons or heteroatoms. A “heterocycloalkyl,” “heterocyclic,” or“heterocycle” can include mono- and poly-halogenated variants thereof.

The terms “alkoxy,” and “alkylthio”, are used in their conventionalsense, and refer to those alkyl groups attached to the remainder of themolecule via an oxygen atom (“oxy”) or thio group, and further includemono- and poly-halogenated variants thereof.

The terms “halo” or “halogen,” by themselves or as part of anothersubstituent, mean, unless otherwise stated, a fluorine, chlorine,bromine, or iodine atom. The term “(halo)alkyl” is meant to include botha “alkyl” and “haloalkyl” substituent. Additionally, the term“haloalkyl,” is meant to include monohaloalkyl and polyhaloalkyl. Forexample, the term “C₁₋₄ haloalkyl” is mean to include trifluoromethyl,2,2,2-trifluoroethyl, 4-chlorobutyl, 3-bromopropyl, difluoromethyl, andthe like.

The term “aryl” means a carbocyclic aromatic group having 6-14 carbonatoms, whether or not fused to one or more groups. Examples of arylgroups include phenyl, naphthyl, biphenyl and the like unless otherwisestated.

The term “heteroaryl” refers to aryl ring(s) that contain from one tofive heteroatoms selected from N, O, and S, wherein the nitrogen andsulfur atoms are optionally oxidized, and the nitrogen atom(s) areoptionally quaternized. A heteroaryl group can be attached to theremainder of the molecule through a heteroatom. Examples of heteroarylgroups include pyridyl, pyridazinyl, pyrazinyl, pyrimindinyl, triazinyl,quinolinyl, quinoxalinyl, quinazolinyl, cinnolinyl, phthalaziniyl,benzotriazinyl, purinyl, benzimidazolyl, benzopyrazolyl, benzotriazolyl,benzisoxazolyl, isobenzofuryl, isoindolyl, indolizinyl, benzotriazinyl,thienopyridinyl, thienopyrimidinyl, pyrazolopyrimidinyl,imidazopyridines, benzothiaxolyl, benzofuranyl, benzothienyl, indolyl,quinolyl, isoquinolyl, isothiazolyl, pyrazolyl, indazolyl, pteridinyl,imidazolyl, triazolyl, tetrazolyl, oxazolyl, isoxazolyl, thiadiazolyl,pyrrolyl, thiazolyl, furyl, thienyl and the like.

The term saccharide includes monosaccharides, disaccharides andtrisaccharides. The term includes glucose, sucrose fructose, galactoseand ribose, as well as deoxy sugars such as deoxyribose and amino sugarsuch as galactosamine. Saccharide derivatives can conveniently beprepared as described in International Patent Applications PublicationNumbers WO 96/34005 and 97/03995. A saccharide can conveniently belinked to the remainder of a compound of formula I through an etherbond, a thioether bond (e.g. an S-glycoside), an amine nitrogen (e.g.,an N-glycoside), or a carbon-carbon bond (e.g. a C-glycoside). In oneembodiment the saccharide can conveniently be linked to the remainder ofa compound of formula I through an ether bond. In one embodiment theterm saccharide includes a group of the formula:

wherein:

X is NR³, and Y is selected from —(C═O)R⁴, —SO₂R⁵, and —(C═O)NR⁶R⁷; or Xis —(C═O)— and Y is NR⁸R⁹;

R³ is hydrogen or (C₁-C₄)alkyl;

R⁴, R⁵, R⁶, R⁷, R¹ and R⁹ are each independently selected from the groupconsisting of hydrogen, (C₁-C₈)alkyl, (C₁-C₈)haloalkyl, (C₁-C₈)alkoxyand (C₃-C₆)cycloalkyl that is optionally substituted with one or moregroups independently selected from the group consisting of halo,(C₁-C₄)alkyl, (C₁-C₄)haloalkyl, (C₁-C₄)alkoxy and (C₁-C₄)haloalkoxy;

R¹⁰ is —OH, —NR⁸R⁹ or —F; and

R¹¹ is —OH, —NR⁸R⁹, —F or 5 membered heterocycle that is optionallysubstituted with one or more groups independently selected from thegroup consisting of halo, hydroxyl, carboxyl, amino, (C₁-C₄)alkyl,(C₁-C₄)haloalkyl, (C₁-C₄)alkoxy and (C₁-C₄)haloalkoxy. In anotherembodiment the saccharide can be selected from the group consisting of:

In another embodiment the saccharide can be:

The term “animal” includes mammalian species, such as a human, mouse,rat, dog, cat, hamster, guinea pig, rabbit, livestock, and the like.

The term “lipid” refers to a group of organic compounds that include,but are not limited to, esters of fatty acids and are characterized bybeing insoluble in water, but soluble in many organic solvents. They areusually divided into at least three classes: (1) “simple lipids,” whichinclude fats and oils as well as waxes; (2) “compound lipids,” whichinclude phospholipids and glycolipids; and (3) “derived lipids” such assteroids.

The term “lipid particle” includes a lipid formulation that can be usedto deliver a therapeutic nucleic acid (e.g., siRNA) to a target site ofinterest (e.g., cell, tissue, organ, and the like). In preferredembodiments, the lipid particle of the invention is a nucleic acid-lipidparticle, which is typically formed from a cationic lipid, anon-cationic lipid (e.g., a phospholipid), a conjugated lipid thatprevents aggregation of the particle (e.g., a PEG-lipid), and optionallycholesterol. Typically, the therapeutic nucleic acid (e.g., siRNA) maybe encapsulated in the lipid portion of the particle, thereby protectingit from enzymatic degradation.

The term “electron dense core”, when used to describe a lipid particleof the present invention, refers to the dark appearance of the interiorportion of a lipid particle when visualized using cryo transmissionelectron microscopy (“cryoTEM”). Some lipid particles of the presentinvention have an electron dense core and lack a lipid bilayerstructure. Some lipid particles of the present invention have anelectron dense core, lack a lipid bilayer structure, and have an inverseHexagonal or Cubic phase structure. While not wishing to be bound bytheory, it is thought that the non-bilayer lipid packing provides a3-dimensional network of lipid cylinders with water and nucleic on theinside, i.e., essentially, a lipid droplet interpenetrated with aqueouschannels containing the nucleic acid.

As used herein, the term “SNALP” refers to a stable nucleic acid-lipidparticle. A SNALP is a particle made from lipids (e.g., a cationiclipid, a non-cationic lipid, and a conjugated lipid that preventsaggregation of the particle), wherein the nucleic acid (e.g., siRNA) isfully encapsulated within the lipid. In certain instances, SNALP areextremely useful for systemic applications, as they can exhibit extendedcirculation lifetimes following intravenous (i.v.) injection, they canaccumulate at distal sites (e.g., sites physically separated from theadministration site), and they can mediate siRNA expression at thesedistal sites. The nucleic acid may be complexed with a condensing agentand encapsulated within a SNALP as set forth in PCT Publication No. WO00/03683, the disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference inits entirety for all purposes.

The lipid particles of the invention (e.g., SNALP) typically have a meandiameter of from about 30 nm to about 150 nm, from about 40 nm to about150 nm, from about 50 nm to about 150 nm, from about 60 nm to about 130nm, from about 70 nm to about 110 nm, from about 70 nm to about 100 nm,from about 80 nm to about 100 nm, from about 90 nm to about 100 nm, fromabout 70 to about 90 nm, from about 80 nm to about 90 nm, from about 70nm to about 80 nm, or about 30 nm, 35 nm, 40 nm, 45 nm, 50 nm, 55 nm, 60nm, 65 nm, 70 nm, 75 nm, 80 nm, 85 nm, 90 nm, 95 nm, 100 nm, 105 nm, 110nm, 115 nm, 120 nm, 125 nm, 130 nm, 135 nm, 140 nm, 145 nm, or 150 nm,and are substantially non-toxic. In addition, nucleic acids, whenpresent in the lipid particles of the present invention, are resistantin aqueous solution to degradation with a nuclease. Nucleic acid-lipidparticles and their method of preparation are disclosed in, e.g., U.S.Patent Publication Nos. 20040142025 and 20070042031, the disclosures ofwhich are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety for allpurposes.

As used herein, “lipid encapsulated” can refer to a lipid particle thatprovides a therapeutic nucleic acid such as an siRNA with fullencapsulation, partial encapsulation, or both. In a preferredembodiment, the nucleic acid (e.g., siRNA) is fully encapsulated in thelipid particle (e.g., to form a SNALP or other nucleic acid-lipidparticle).

The term “lipid conjugate” refers to a conjugated lipid that inhibitsaggregation of lipid particles. Such lipid conjugates include, but arenot limited to, PEG-lipid conjugates such as, e.g., PEG coupled todialkyloxypropyls (e.g., PEG-DAA conjugates), PEG coupled todiacylglycerols (e.g., PEG-DAG conjugates), PEG coupled to cholesterol,PEG coupled to phosphatidylethanolamines, and PEG conjugated toceramides (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 5,885,613), cationic PEG lipids,polyoxazoline (POZ)-lipid conjugates, polyamide oligomers (e.g.,ATTA-lipid conjugates), and mixtures thereof. Additional examples ofPOZ-lipid conjugates are described in PCT Publication No. WO2010/006282. PEG or POZ can be conjugated directly to the lipid or maybe linked to the lipid via a linker moiety. Any linker moiety suitablefor coupling the PEG or the POZ to a lipid can be used including, e.g.,non-ester containing linker moieties and ester-containing linkermoieties. In certain preferred embodiments, non-ester containing linkermoieties, such as amides or carbamates, are used. The disclosures ofeach of the above patent documents are herein incorporated by referencein their entirety for all purposes.

The term “amphipathic lipid” refers, in part, to any suitable materialwherein the hydrophobic portion of the lipid material orients into ahydrophobic phase, while the hydrophilic portion orients toward theaqueous phase. Hydrophilic characteristics derive from the presence ofpolar or charged groups such as carbohydrates, phosphate, carboxylic,sulfato, amino, sulfhydryl, nitro, hydroxyl, and other like groups.Hydrophobicity can be conferred by the inclusion of apolar groups thatinclude, but are not limited to, long-chain saturated and unsaturatedaliphatic hydrocarbon groups and such groups substituted by one or morearomatic, cycloaliphatic, or heterocyclic group(s). Examples ofamphipathic compounds include, but are not limited to, phospholipids,aminolipids, and sphingolipids.

Representative examples of phospholipids include, but are not limitedto, phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylserine,phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidic acid, palmitoyloleoylphosphatidylcholine, lysophosphatidylcholine,lysophosphatidylethanolamine, dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine,dioleoylphosphatidylcholine, distearoylphosphatidylcholine, anddilinoleoylphosphatidylcholine. Other compounds lacking in phosphorus,such as sphingolipid, glycosphingolipid families, diacylglycerols, andβ-acyloxyacids, are also within the group designated as amphipathiclipids. Additionally, the amphipathic lipids described above can bemixed with other lipids including triglycerides and sterols.

The term “neutral lipid” refers to any of a number of lipid species thatexist either in an uncharged or neutral zwitterionic form at a selectedpH. At physiological pH, such lipids include, for example,diacylphosphatidylcholine, diacylphosphatidylethanolamine, ceramide,sphingomyelin, cephalin, cholesterol, cerebrosides, and diacylglycerols.

The term “non-cationic lipid” refers to any amphipathic lipid as well asany other neutral lipid or anionic lipid.

The term “anionic lipid” refers to any lipid that is negatively chargedat physiological pH. These lipids include, but are not limited to,phosphatidylglycerols, cardiolipins, diacylphosphatidylserines,diacylphosphatidic acids, N-dodecanoyl phosphatidylethanolamines,N-succinyl phosphatidylethanolamines,N-glutarylphosphatidylethanolamines, lysylphosphatidylglycerols,palmitoyloleyolphosphatidylglycerol (POPG), and other anionic modifyinggroups joined to neutral lipids.

The term “hydrophobic lipid” refers to compounds having apolar groupsthat include, but are not limited to, long-chain saturated andunsaturated aliphatic hydrocarbon groups and such groups optionallysubstituted by one or more aromatic, cycloaliphatic, or heterocyclicgroup(s). Suitable examples include, but are not limited to,diacylglycerol, dialkylglycerol, N—N-dialkylamino,1,2-diacyloxy-3-aminopropane, and 1,2-dialkyl-3-aminopropane.

The terms “cationic lipid” and “amino lipid” are used interchangeablyherein to include those lipids and salts thereof having one, two, three,or more fatty acid or fatty alkyl chains and a pH-titratable amino headgroup (e.g., an alkylamino or dialkylamino head group). The cationiclipid is typically protonated (i.e., positively charged) at a pH belowthe pK_(a) of the cationic lipid and is substantially neutral at a pHabove the pK_(a). The cationic lipids of the invention may also betermed titratable cationic lipids. In some embodiments, the cationiclipids comprise: a protonatable tertiary amine (e.g., pH-titratable)head group; Cis alkyl chains, wherein each alkyl chain independently has0 to 3 (e.g., 0, 1, 2, or 3) double bonds; and ether, ester, or ketallinkages between the head group and alkyl chains. Such cationic lipidsinclude, but are not limited to, DSDMA, DODMA, DLinDMA, DLenDMA,γ-DLenDMA, DLin-K-DMA, DLin-K-C2-DMA (also known as DLin-C2K-DMA, XTC2,and C2K), DLin-K-C3-DMA, DLin-K-C4-DMA, DLen-C2K-DMA, γ-DLen-C2K-DMA,DLin-M-C2-DMA (also known as MC2), DLin-M-C3-DMA (also known as MC3) and(DLin-MP-DMA)(also known as 1-B11).

The term “alkylamino” includes a group of formula —N(H)R, wherein R isan alkyl as defined herein.

The term “dialkylamino” includes a group of formula —NR₂, wherein each Ris independently an alkyl as defined herein.

The term “salts” includes any anionic and cationic complex, such as thecomplex formed between a cationic lipid and one or more anions.Non-limiting examples of anions include inorganic and organic anions,e.g., hydride, fluoride, chloride, bromide, iodide, oxalate (e.g.,hemioxalate), phosphate, phosphonate, hydrogen phosphate, dihydrogenphosphate, oxide, carbonate, bicarbonate, nitrate, nitrite, nitride,bisulfite, sulfide, sulfite, bisulfate, sulfate, thiosulfate, hydrogensulfate, borate, formate, acetate, benzoate, citrate, tartrate, lactate,acrylate, polyacrylate, fumarate, maleate, itaconate, glycolate,gluconate, malate, mandelate, tiglate, ascorbate, salicylate,polymethacrylate, perchlorate, chlorate, chlorite, hypochlorite,bromate, hypobromite, iodate, an alkylsulfonate, an arylsulfonate,arsenate, arsenite, chromate, dichromate, cyanide, cyanate, thiocyanate,hydroxide, peroxide, permanganate, and mixtures thereof. In particularembodiments, the salts of the cationic lipids disclosed herein arecrystalline salts.

The term “acyl” includes any alkyl, alkenyl, or alkynyl wherein thecarbon at the point of attachment is substituted with an oxo group, asdefined below. The following are non-limiting examples of acyl groups:—C(═O)alkyl, —C(═O)alkenyl, and —C(═O)alkynyl.

The term “fusogenic” refers to the ability of a lipid particle, such asa SNALP, to fuse with the membranes of a cell. The membranes can beeither the plasma membrane or membranes surrounding organelles, e.g.,endosome, nucleus, etc.

As used herein, the term “aqueous solution” refers to a compositioncomprising in whole, or in part, water.

As used herein, the term “organic lipid solution” refers to acomposition comprising in whole, or in part, an organic solvent having alipid.

“Distal site,” as used herein, refers to a physically separated site,which is not limited to an adjacent capillary bed, but includes sitesbroadly distributed throughout an organism.

“Serum-stable” in relation to nucleic acid-lipid particles such as SNALPmeans that the particle is not significantly degraded after exposure toa serum or nuclease assay that would significantly degrade free DNA orRNA. Suitable assays include, for example, a standard serum assay, aDNAse assay, or an RNAse assay.

“Systemic delivery,” as used herein, refers to delivery of lipidparticles that leads to a broad biodistribution of an active agent suchas an siRNA within an organism. Some techniques of administration canlead to the systemic delivery of certain agents, but not others.Systemic delivery means that a useful, preferably therapeutic, amount ofan agent is exposed to most parts of the body. To obtain broadbiodistribution generally requires a blood lifetime such that the agentis not rapidly degraded or cleared (such as by first pass organs (liver,lung, etc.) or by rapid, nonspecific cell binding) before reaching adisease site distal to the site of administration. Systemic delivery oflipid particles can be by any means known in the art including, forexample, intravenous, subcutaneous, and intraperitoneal. In a preferredembodiment, systemic delivery of lipid particles is by intravenousdelivery.

“Local delivery,” as used herein, refers to delivery of an active agentsuch as an siRNA directly to a target site within an organism. Forexample, an agent can be locally delivered by direct injection into adisease site, other target site, or a target organ such as the liver,heart, pancreas, kidney, and the like.

When used herein to describe the ratio of lipid:siRNA, the term “lipid”refers to the total lipid in the particle.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that compounds of theinvention having a chiral center may exist in and be isolated inoptically active and racemic forms. Some compounds may exhibitpolymorphism. It is to be understood that the present inventionencompasses any racemic, optically-active, polymorphic, orstereoisomeric form, or mixtures thereof, of a compound of theinvention, which possess the useful properties described herein, itbeing well known in the art how to prepare optically active forms (forexample, by resolution of the racemic form by recrystallizationtechniques, by synthesis from optically-active starting materials, bychiral synthesis, or by chromatographic separation using a chiralstationary phase.

When a bond in a compound formula herein is drawn in anon-stereochemical manner (e.g. flat), the atom to which the bond isattached includes all stereochemical possibilities. Unless otherwisespecifically noted, when a bond in a compound formula herein is drawn ina defined stereochemical manner (e.g. bold, bold-wedge, dashed ordashed-wedge), it is to be understood that the atom to which thestereochemical bond is attached is enriched in the absolute stereoisomerdepicted. In one embodiment, the compound may be at least 51% theabsolute stereoisomer depicted. In another embodiment, the compound maybe at least 60% the absolute stereoisomer depicted. In anotherembodiment, the compound may be at least 80% the absolute stereoisomerdepicted. In another embodiment, the compound may be at least 90% theabsolute stereoisomer depicted. In another embodiment, the compound maybe at least 95 the absolute stereoisomer depicted. In anotherembodiment, the compound may be at least 99% the absolute stereoisomerdepicted.

Unless stated otherwise herein, the term “about”, when used inconnection with a value or range of values, means plus or minus 5% ofthe stated value or range of values.

Generating siRNA Molecules

siRNA can be provided in several forms including, e.g., as one or moreisolated small-interfering RNA (siRNA) duplexes, as longerdouble-stranded RNA (dsRNA), or as siRNA or dsRNA transcribed from atranscriptional cassette in a DNA plasmid. In some embodiments, siRNAmay be produced enzymatically or by partial/total organic synthesis, andmodified ribonucleotides can be introduced by in vitro enzymatic ororganic synthesis. In certain instances, each strand is preparedchemically. Methods of synthesizing RNA molecules are known in the art,e.g., the chemical synthesis methods as described in Verma and Eckstein(1998) or as described herein.

Methods for isolating RNA, synthesizing RNA, hybridizing nucleic acids,making and screening cDNA libraries, and performing PCR are well knownin the art (see, e.g., Gubler and Hoffman, Gene, 25:263-269 (1983);Sambrook et al., supra; Ausubel et al., supra), as are PCR methods (see,U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,683,195 and 4,683,202; PCR Protocols: A Guide toMethods and Applications (Innis et al., eds, 1990)). Expressionlibraries are also well known to those of skill in the art. Additionalbasic texts disclosing the general methods of use in this inventioninclude Sambrook et al., Molecular Cloning, A Laboratory Manual (2nd ed.1989); Kriegler, Gene Transfer and Expression: A Laboratory Manual(1990); and Current Protocols in Molecular Biology (Ausubel et al.,eds., 1994). The disclosures of these references are herein incorporatedby reference in their entirety for all purposes.

Typically, siRNA are chemically synthesized. The oligonucleotides thatcomprise the siRNA molecules of the invention can be synthesized usingany of a variety of techniques known in the art, such as those describedin Usman et al., J. Am. Chem. Soc., 109:7845 (1987); Scaringe et al.,Nucl. Acids Res., 18:5433 (1990); Wincott et al., Nucl. Acids Res.,23:2677-2684 (1995); and Wincott et al., Methods Mol. Bio., 74:59(1997). The synthesis of oligonucleotides makes use of common nucleicacid protecting and coupling groups, such as dimethoxytrityl at the5′-end and phosphoramidites at the 3′-end. As a non-limiting example,small scale syntheses can be conducted on an Applied Biosystemssynthesizer using a 0.2 μmol scale protocol. Alternatively, syntheses atthe 0.2 μmol scale can be performed on a 96-well plate synthesizer fromProtogene (Palo Alto, Calif.). However, a larger or smaller scale ofsynthesis is also within the scope of this invention. Suitable reagentsfor oligonucleotide synthesis, methods for RNA deprotection, and methodsfor RNA purification are known to those of skill in the art.

siRNA molecules can be assembled from two distinct oligonucleotides,wherein one oligonucleotide comprises the sense strand and the othercomprises the antisense strand of the siRNA. For example, each strandcan be synthesized separately and joined together by hybridization orligation following synthesis and/or deprotection.

Embodiments of the Invention

Table 1 in Example 25 describes a series of chemically modified siRNAduplexes (sense and antisense strands shown) that target the Hepatitis Bvirus (abbreviated as “HBV”). As described herein, a compound of theinvention may comprise such a siRNA (i.e., siRNA 1-37).

Accordingly, one aspect of the invention is a nucleic acid moleculeselected from the group consisting of SEQ ID NO:1, SEQ ID NO:3, SEQ IDNO:5, SEQ ID NO:7, SEQ ID NO:9, SEQ ID NO:11, SEQ ID NO:13, SEQ IDNO:15, SEQ ID NO:17, SEQ ID NO:19, SEQ ID NO:21, SEQ ID NO:23, SEQ IDNO:25, SEQ ID NO:27, SEQ ID NO:29, SEQ ID NO:31, SEQ ID NO:33, SEQ IDNO:35, SEQ ID NO:37, SEQ ID NO:39, SEQ ID NO:41, SEQ ID NO:43, SEQ IDNO:45, SEQ ID NO:47, SEQ ID NO:49, SEQ ID NO:51, SEQ ID NO:53, SEQ IDNO:55, SEQ ID NO:57, SEQ ID NO:59, SEQ ID NO:61, SEQ ID NO:63, SEQ IDNO:65, SEQ ID NO:67, SEQ ID NO:69, SEQ ID NO:71 and SEQ ID NO:73.

Another aspect of this invention is a nucleic acid molecule selectedfrom the group consisting of SEQ ID NO:2, SEQ ID NO:4, SEQ ID NO:6, SEQID NO:8, SEQ ID NO:10, SEQ ID NO:12, SEQ ID NO:14, SEQ ID NO:16, SEQ IDNO:18, SEQ ID NO:20, SEQ ID NO:22, SEQ ID NO:24, SEQ ID NO:26, SEQ IDNO:28, SEQ ID NO:30, SEQ ID NO:32, SEQ ID NO:34, SEQ ID NO:36, SEQ IDNO:38, SEQ ID NO:40, SEQ ID NO:42, SEQ ID NO:44, SEQ ID NO:46, SEQ IDNO:48, SEQ ID NO:50, SEQ ID NO:52, SEQ ID NO:54, SEQ ID NO:56, SEQ IDNO:58, SEQ ID NO:60, SEQ ID NO:62, SEQ ID NO:64, SEQ ID NO:66, SEQ IDNO:68, SEQ ID NO:70, SEQ ID NO:72 and SEQ ID NO:74.

One aspect of the invention is a composition comprising a nucleic acidmolecule described herein, or a combination thereof.

One aspect of the invention provides a double stranded siRNA moleculeselected from the group consisting of siRNA 1 (SEQ ID NO:1 and 2), 2(SEQ ID NO:3 and 4), 3 (SEQ ID NO:5 and 6), 4 (SEQ ID NO:7 and 8), 5(SEQ ID NO:9 and 10), 6 (SEQ ID NO:11 and 12), 7 (SEQ ID NO:13 and 14),8 (SEQ ID NO:15 and 16), 9 (SEQ ID NO:17 and 18), 10 (SEQ ID NO:19 and20), 11 (SEQ ID NO:21 and 22), 12 (SEQ ID NO:23 and 24), 13 (SEQ IDNO:25 and 26), 14 (SEQ ID NO:27 and 28), 15 (SEQ ID NO:29 and 30), 16(SEQ ID NO:31 and 32), 17 (SEQ ID NO:33 and 34), 18 (SEQ ID NO:35 and36), 19 (SEQ ID NO:37 and 38), 20 (SEQ ID NO:39 and 40), 21 (SEQ IDNO:41 and 42), 22 (SEQ ID NO:43 and 44), 23 (SEQ ID NO:45 and 46), 24(SEQ ID NO:47 and 48), 25 (SEQ ID NO:49 and 50), 26 (SEQ ID NO:51 and52), 27 (SEQ ID NO:53 and 54), 28 (SEQ ID NO:55 and 56), 29 (SEQ IDNO:57 and 58), 30 (SEQ ID NO:59 and 60), 31 (SEQ ID NO:61 and 62), 32(SEQ ID NO:63 and 64), 33 (SEQ ID NO:65 and 66), 34 (SEQ ID NO:67 and68), 35 (SEQ ID NO:69 and 70), 36 (SEQ ID NO:71 and 72) and 37 (SEQ IDNO:73 and 74).

Another aspect of the invention provides a composition comprising adouble stranded siRNA molecule described herein.

In one embodiment, the composition is a pharmaceutical composition thatcomprises a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

One aspect of the invention is a compound of formula I, as set forthabout in the Summary of the Invention, or a salt thereof.

In one embodiment of the compound of formula I, R¹ a is targetingligand;

L¹ is absent or a linking group;

L² is absent or a linking group;

R² is a double stranded siRNA molecule selected from the double strandedsiRNA of Table 1;

the ring A is absent, a 3-20 membered cycloalkyl, a 5-20 membered aryl,a 5-20 membered heteroaryl, or a 3-20 membered heterocycloalkyl;

each R^(A) is independently selected from the group consisting ofhydrogen, hydroxy, CN, F, Cl, Br, I, —C₁₋₂ alkyl-OR^(B) and C₁₋₈ alkylthat is optionally substituted with one or more groups independentlyselected from halo, hydroxy, and C₁₋₃ alkoxy;

R^(B) is hydrogen, a protecting group, a covalent bond to a solidsupport, or a bond to a linking group that is bound to a solid support;and

n is 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10.

In one embodiment R¹ is —C(H)_((3-p))(L³-saccharide)_(p), wherein eachL³ is independently a linking group; p is 1, 2, or 3; and saccharide isa monosaccharide or disaccharide.

In one embodiment the saccharide is:

wherein:

X is NR³, and Y is selected from —(C═O)R⁴, —SO₂R⁵, and —(C═O)NR⁶R⁷; or Xis —(C═O)— and Y is NR⁸R⁹;

R³ is hydrogen or (C₁-C₄)alkyl;

R⁴, R⁵, R⁶, R⁷, R¹ and R⁹ are each independently selected from the groupconsisting of hydrogen, (C₁-C₈)alkyl, (C₁-C₈)haloalkyl, (C₁-C₈)alkoxyand (C₃-C₆)cycloalkyl that is optionally substituted with one or moregroups independently selected from the group consisting of halo,(C₁-C₄)alkyl, (C₁-C₄)haloalkyl, (C₁-C₄)alkoxy and (C₁-C₄)haloalkoxy;

R¹⁰ is —OH, —NR⁸R⁹ or —F; and

R¹¹ is —OH, —NR⁸R⁹, —F or 5 membered heterocycle that is optionallysubstituted with one or more groups independently selected from thegroup consisting of halo, hydroxyl, carboxyl, amino, (C₁-C₄)alkyl,(C₁-C₄)haloalkyl, (C₁-C₄)alkoxy and (C₁-C₄)haloalkoxy;

or a salt thereof.

In one embodiment the saccharide is selected from the group consistingof:

and salts thereof.

In one embodiment the saccharide is:

In one embodiment each L³ is independently a divalent, branched orunbranched, saturated or unsaturated, hydrocarbon chain, having from 0to 50 carbon atoms, wherein one or more (e.g. 1, 2, 3, or 4) of thecarbon atoms in the hydrocarbon chain is optionally replaced by —O—,—NR^(X)—, —NR^(X)—C(═O)—, —C(═O)—NR^(X)— or —S—, and wherein R^(X) ishydrogen or (C₁-C₆)alkyl, and wherein the hydrocarbon chain, isoptionally substituted with one or more (e.g. 1, 2, 3, or 4)substituents selected from (C₁-C₆)alkoxy, (C₃-C₆)cycloalkyl,(C₁-C₆)alkanoyl, (C₁-C₆)alkanoyloxy, (C₁-C₆)alkoxycarbonyl,(C₁-C₆)alkylthio, azido, cyano, nitro, halo, hydroxy, oxo (═O), carboxy,aryl, aryloxy, heteroaryl, and heteroaryloxy.

In one embodiment each L³ is independently a divalent, branched orunbranched, saturated or unsaturated, hydrocarbon chain, having from 1to 20 carbon atoms, wherein one or more (e.g. 1, 2, 3, or 4) of thecarbon atoms in the hydrocarbon chain is optionally replaced by —O—,—NR^(X)—, —NR^(X)—C(═O)—, —C(═O)—NR^(X)— or —S—, and wherein R^(X) ishydrogen or (C₁-C₆)alkyl, and wherein the hydrocarbon chain, isoptionally substituted with one or more (e.g. 1, 2, 3, or 4)substituents selected from (C₁-C₆)alkoxy, (C₃-C₆)cycloalkyl,(C₁-C₆)alkanoyl, (C₁-C₆)alkanoyloxy, (C₁-C₆)alkoxycarbonyl,(C₁-C₆)alkylthio, azido, cyano, nitro, halo, hydroxy, oxo (═O), carboxy,aryl, aryloxy, heteroaryl, and heteroaryloxy.

In one embodiment L³ is:

or a salt thereof.

In one embodiment R is:

or a salt thereof.

In one embodiment R¹ is:

wherein G is —NH— or —O—;

R^(C) is hydrogen, (C₁-C₈)alkyl, (C₁-C₈)haloalkyl, (C₁-C₈)alkoxy,(C₁-C₆)alkanoyl, (C₃-C₂₀)cycloalkyl, (C₃-C₂₀)heterocycle, aryl,heteroaryl, monosaccharide, disaccharide or trisaccharide; and whereinthe cycloalkyl, heterocyle, aryl, heteroaryl and saccharide areoptionally substituted with one or more groups independently selectedfrom the group consisting of halo, carboxyl, hydroxyl, amino,(C₁-C₄)alkyl, (C₁-C₄)haloalkyl, (C₁-C₄)alkoxy and (C₁-C₄)haloalkoxy;

or a salt thereof.

In one embodiment R^(C) is:

In one embodiment R¹ is:

In one embodiment R^(C) is:

In one embodiment G is —NH—.

In one embodiment R¹ is:

In one embodiment R¹ is:

wherein each RD is independently selected from the group consisting ofhydrogen, (C₁-C₆)alkyl, (C₉-C₂₀)alkylsilyl, (R^(W))₃Si—, (C₂-C₆)alkenyl,tetrahydropyranyl, (C₁-C₆)alkanoyl, benzoyl, aryl(C₁-C₃)alkyl, TMTr(Trimethoxytrityl), DMTr (Dimethoxytrityl), MMTr (Monomethoxytrityl),and Tr (Trityl); and

each R^(W) is independently selected from the group consisting of(C₁-C₄)alkyl and aryl.

In one embodiment linking groups L¹ and L² are independently a divalent,branched or unbranched, saturated or unsaturated, hydrocarbon chain,having from 1 to 50 carbon atoms, wherein one or more (e.g. 1, 2, 3, or4) of the carbon atoms in the hydrocarbon chain is optionally replacedby —O—, —NR^(X)—, —NR^(X)—C(═O)—, —C(═O)—NR^(X)— or —S—, and whereinR^(X) is hydrogen or (C₁-C₆)alkyl, and wherein the hydrocarbon chain, isoptionally substituted with one or more (e.g. 1, 2, 3, or 4)substituents selected from (C₁-C₆)alkoxy, (C₃-C₆)cycloalkyl,(C₁-C₆)alkanoyl, (C₁-C₆)alkanoyloxy, (C₁-C₆)alkoxycarbonyl,(C₁-C₆)alkylthio, azido, cyano, nitro, halo, hydroxy, oxo (═O), carboxy,aryl, aryloxy, heteroaryl, and heteroaryloxy.

In one embodiment L¹ and L² are independently a divalent, branched orunbranched, saturated or unsaturated, hydrocarbon chain, having from 1to 20 carbon atoms, wherein one or more (e.g. 1, 2, 3, or 4) of thecarbon atoms in the hydrocarbon chain is optionally replaced by —O—,—NR^(X)—, —NR^(X)—C(═O)—, —C(═O)—NR^(X)— or —S—, and wherein R^(X) ishydrogen or (C₁-C₆)alkyl, and wherein the hydrocarbon chain, isoptionally substituted with one or more (e.g. 1, 2, 3, or 4)substituents selected from (C₁-C₆)alkoxy, (C₃-C₆)cycloalkyl,(C₁-C₆)alkanoyl, (C₁-C₆)alkanoyloxy, (C₁-C₆)alkoxycarbonyl,(C₁-C₆)alkylthio, azido, cyano, nitro, halo, hydroxy, oxo (═O), carboxy,aryl, aryloxy, heteroaryl, and heteroaryloxy.

In one embodiment L¹ and L² are independently, a divalent, branched orunbranched, saturated or unsaturated, hydrocarbon chain, having from 1to 14 carbon atoms, wherein one or more (e.g. 1, 2, 3, or 4) of thecarbon atoms in the hydrocarbon chain is optionally replaced —O—,—NR^(X)—, —NR^(X)—C(═O)—, —C(═O)—NR^(X)— or —S—, and wherein R^(X) ishydrogen or (C₁-C₆)alkyl, and wherein the hydrocarbon chain, isoptionally substituted with one or more (e.g. 1, 2, 3, or 4)substituents selected from (C₁-C₆)alkoxy, (C₃-C₆)cycloalkyl,(C₁-C₆)alkanoyl, (C₁-C₆)alkanoyloxy, (C₁-C₆)alkoxycarbonyl,(C₁-C₆)alkylthio, azido, cyano, nitro, halo, hydroxy, oxo (═O), carboxy,aryl, aryloxy, heteroaryl, and heteroaryloxy.

In one embodiment L¹ is connected to R¹ through —NH—, —O—, —S—, —(C═O)—,—(C═O)—NH—, —NH—(C═O)—, —(C═O)—O—, —NH—(C═O)—NH—, or —NH—(SO₂)—.

In one embodiment L² is connected to R² through —O—.

In one embodiment L¹ is selected from the group consisting of:

In one embodiment L¹ is selected from the group consisting of:

and salts thereof.

In one embodiment L² is —CH₂—O— or —CH₂—CH₂—O—.

In one embodiment a compound of formula I has the following formula Ia:

wherein:

each D is independently selected from the group consisting of

and —N═;

or a salt thereof.

In one embodiment a compound of formula Ia is selected from the groupconsisting of:

wherein:

Q¹ is hydrogen and Q² is R²; or Q¹ is R² and Q² is hydrogen;

Z is -L¹-R¹;

and salts thereof.

In one embodiment a compound of formula I has the following formula Ib:

wherein:

each D is independently selected from the group consisting of

and —N═;

each m is independently 1 or 2; or a salt thereof.

In one embodiment a compound of formula Ib is selected from the groupconsisting of:

wherein:

Q¹ is hydrogen and Q² is R²; or Q¹ is R² and Q² is hydrogen;

Z is -L¹-R¹;

and salts thereof.

In one embodiment a compound of formula I has the following formula(Ic):

wherein E is —O— or —CH₂—;

n is selected from the group consisting of 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4; and

n1 and n2 are each independently selected from the group consisting of0, 1, 2, and 3;

or a salt thereof.

In certain embodiments a compound of formula (Ic) is selected from thegroup consisting of:

wherein Z is -L¹-R¹;

and salts thereof.

In one embodiment the -A-L²-R² moiety is:

wherein:

Q¹ is hydrogen and Q² is R²; or Q¹ is R² and Q² is hydrogen; and

each q is independently 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5;

or a salt thereof.

In one embodiment a compound of formula (I) is selected from the groupconsisting of:

and salts thereof.

In one embodiment R¹ is selected from the group consisting of:

wherein R^(S) is

n is 2, 3, or 4;

x is 1 or 2.

In one embodiment L is selected from the group consisting of:

In one embodiment L is selected from the group consisting of:

In one embodiment A is absent, phenyl, pyrrolidinyl, or cyclopentyl.

In one embodiment L² is C₁₋₄ alkylene-O— that is optionally substitutedwith hydroxy.

In one embodiment L² is —CH₂O—, —CH₂CH₂O—, or —CH(OH)CH₂O—.

In one embodiment each R^(A) is independently hydroxy or C₁₋₈ alkyl thatis optionally substituted with hydroxyl.

In one embodiment each R^(A) is independently selected from the groupconsisting of hydroxy, methyl and —CH₂OH.

In one embodiment a compound of formula I has the following formula(Ig):

wherein B is —N— or —CH—;

L¹ is absent or —NH—;

L² is C₁₋₄ alkylene-O— that is optionally substituted with hydroxyl orhalo;

n is 0, 1, or 2;

or a salt thereof.

In one embodiment a compound of formula I has the following formula(Ig):

wherein B is —N— or —CH—;

L¹ is absent or —NH—;

L² is C₁₋₄ alkylene-O— that is optionally substituted with hydroxyl orhalo;

n is 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7;

or a salt thereof.

In one embodiment a compound of formula I has the following formula(Ig):

wherein B is —N— or —CH—;

L¹ is absent or —NH—;

L² is C₁₋₄ alkylene-O— that is optionally substituted with hydroxyl orhalo;

n is 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4;

or a salt thereof.

In one embodiment a compound of formula Ig is selected from the groupconsisting of:

wherein R′ is C₁₋₉ alkyl, C₂₋₉ alkenyl or C₂₋₉ alkynyl; wherein the C₁₋₉alkyl, C₂₋₉ alkenyl or C₂₋₉ alkynyl are optionally substituted with haloor hydroxyl;

and salts thereof.

In one embodiment a compound of formula I is selected from the groupconsisting of:

and salts thereof.

In one embodiment the compound of formula I or the salt thereof isselected from the group consisting of:

In one embodiment the compound of formula I or the salt thereof isselected from the group consisting of:

or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein R² is a doublestranded siRNA molecule selected from the double stranded siRNAmolecules of Table 1.

In one embodiment the compound of formula I is:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R² is a doublestranded siRNA molecule (e.g. a double stranded siRNA molecule selectedfrom the double stranded siRNA molecules of Table 1).

In one embodiment the compound of formula I is:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R² is a doublestranded siRNA molecule (e.g. a double stranded siRNA molecule selectedfrom the double stranded siRNA molecules of Table 1).

In one embodiment the compound of formula I is:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R² is a doublestranded siRNA molecule (e.g. a double stranded siRNA molecule selectedfrom the double stranded siRNA molecules of Table 1).

In one embodiment the compound of formula I is:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R² is a doublestranded siRNA molecule (e.g. a double stranded siRNA molecule selectedfrom the double stranded siRNA molecules of Table 1).

In one embodiment the compound of formula I is:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R² is a doublestranded siRNA molecule (e.g. a double stranded siRNA molecule selectedfrom the double stranded siRNA molecules of Table 1).

In one embodiment the compound of formula I is:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R² is a doublestranded siRNA molecule (e.g. a double stranded siRNA molecule selectedfrom the double stranded siRNA molecules of Table 1).

In one embodiment the compound of formula I is:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R² is a doublestranded siRNA molecule (e.g. a double stranded siRNA molecule selectedfrom the double stranded siRNA molecules of Table 1).

In one embodiment the compound of formula I is:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R² is a doublestranded siRNA molecule (e.g. a double stranded siRNA molecule selectedfrom the double stranded siRNA molecules of Table 1).

In one embodiment the compound of formula I is:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R² is a doublestranded siRNA molecule (e.g. a double stranded siRNA molecule selectedfrom the double stranded siRNA molecules of Table 1).

In one embodiment the compound of formula I is:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R² is a doublestranded siRNA molecule (e.g. a double stranded siRNA molecule selectedfrom the double stranded siRNA molecules of Table 1).

In one embodiment the compound of formula I is:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R² is a doublestranded siRNA molecule (e.g. a double stranded siRNA molecule selectedfrom the double stranded siRNA molecules of Table 1).

In one embodiment the compound of formula I is:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R² is a doublestranded siRNA molecule (e.g. a double stranded siRNA molecule selectedfrom the double stranded siRNA molecules of Table 1).

In one embodiment the compound of formula I is:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R² is a doublestranded siRNA molecule (e.g. a double stranded siRNA molecule selectedfrom the double stranded siRNA molecules of Table 1).

In one embodiment the compound of formula I is:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

In one embodiment the compound of formula I is:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

In one embodiment the compound of formula I is:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

In one embodiment the compound of formula I is:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

In one embodiment the compound of formula I is:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

In one embodiment the compound of formula I is:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

In one embodiment the compound of formula I is:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

In one embodiment the compound of formula I is:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

In one embodiment the invention provides a compound of formula (I):

wherein:

L¹ is absent or a linking group;

L² is absent or a linking group;

R² is a nucleic acid;

the ring A is absent, a 3-20 membered cycloalkyl, a 5-20 membered aryl,a 5-20 membered heteroaryl, or a 3-20 membered heterocycloalkyl;

each R^(A) is independently selected from the group consisting ofhydrogen, hydroxy, CN, F, Cl, Br, I, —C₁₋₂ alkyl-OR^(B), C₁₋₁₀ alkylC₂₋₁₀ alkenyl, and C₂₋₁₀ alkynyl; wherein the C₁₋₁₀ alkyl C₂₋₁₀ alkenyl,and C₂₋₁₀ alkynyl are optionally substituted with one or more groupsindependently selected from halo, hydroxy, and C₁₋₃ alkoxy;

R^(B) is hydrogen, a protecting group, a covalent bond to a solidsupport, or a bond to a linking group that is bound to a solid support;and

n is 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10;

or a salt thereof.

In one embodiment the invention provides a compound of formula:

wherein:

L² is absent or a linking group;

R² is a nucleic acid;

the ring A is absent, a 3-20 membered cycloalkyl, a 5-20 membered aryl,a 5-20 membered heteroaryl, or a 3-20 membered heterocycloalkyl;

each R^(A) is independently selected from the group consisting ofhydrogen, hydroxy, CN, F, Cl, Br, I, —C₁₋₂ alkyl-OR^(B), C₁₋₁₀ alkylC₂₋₁₀ alkenyl, and C₂₋₁₀ alkynyl; wherein the C₁₋₁₀ alkyl C₂₋₁₀ alkenyl,and C₂₋₁₀ alkynyl are optionally substituted with one or more groupsindependently selected from halo, hydroxy, and C₁₋₃ alkoxy;

R^(B) is hydrogen, a protecting group, a covalent bond to a solidsupport, or a bond to a linking group that is bound to a solid support;and

n is 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10;

or a salt thereof.

In one embodiment the invention provides a compound of formula:

wherein:

L¹ is absent or a linking group;

L² is absent or a linking group;

R² is a nucleic acid;

B is divalent and is selected from the group consisting of:

wherein:

each R′ is independently C₁₋₉ alkyl, C₂₋₉ alkenyl or C₂₋₉ alkynyl;wherein the C₁₋₉ alkyl, C₂₋₉ alkenyl or C₂₋₉ alkynyl are optionallysubstituted with halo or hydroxyl;

the valence marked with * is attached to L¹ or is attached to R¹ if L¹is absent; and

the valence marked with ** is attached to L² or is attached to R² if L²is absent;

or a salt thereof.

In one embodiment L¹ and L² are independently a divalent, branched orunbranched, saturated or unsaturated, hydrocarbon chain, having from 1to 50 carbon atoms, wherein one or more (e.g. 1, 2, 3, or 4) of thecarbon atoms in the hydrocarbon chain is optionally replaced by —O—,—NR^(X)—, —NR^(X)—C(═O)—, —C(═O)—NR^(X)— or —S—, and wherein R ishydrogen or (C₁-C₆)alkyl, and wherein the hydrocarbon chain, isoptionally substituted with one or more substituents selected from(C₁-C₆)alkoxy, (C₃-C₆)cycloalkyl, (C₁-C₆)alkanoyl, (C₁-C₆)alkanoyloxy,(C₁-C₆)alkoxycarbonyl, (C₁-C₆)alkylthio, azido, cyano, nitro, halo,hydroxy, oxo (═O), carboxy, aryl, aryloxy, heteroaryl, andheteroaryloxy.

In one embodiment L¹ is selected from the group consisting of:

or a salt thereof.

In one embodiment L¹ is connected to B¹ through a linkage selected fromthe group consisting of: —O—, —S—, —(C═O)—, —(C═O)—NH—, —NH—(C═O),—(C═O)—O—, —NH—(C═O)—NH—, or —NH—(SO₂)—.

In one embodiment L¹ is selected from the group consisting of:

In one embodiment L² is connected to R² through —O—.

In one embodiment L² is C₁₋₄ alkylene-O— that is optionally substitutedwith hydroxy.

In one embodiment L² is absent.

In one embodiment the invention provides a compound,

or a salt thereof wherein R² is a nucleic acid.

One aspect of this invention is pharmaceutical composition comprising acompound of formula I, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

Another aspect of this invention is a method to deliver a doublestranded siRNA to the liver of an animal comprising administering acompound of formula I or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, tothe animal.

Another aspect of this invention is a method to treat a disease ordisorder (e.g., a liver disease or a viral infection, such as ahepatitis B viral infection) in an animal comprising administering acompound of formula I or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, tothe animal.

Certain embodiments of the invention provide a compound of formula (I)or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof for use in medicaltherapy.

Certain embodiments of the invention provide a compound of formula (I)or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof for the prophylactic ortherapeutic treatment of a disease or disorder (e.g., a liver disease ora viral infection, such as a hepatitis B virus infection) in an animal.

Certain embodiments of the invention provide the use of a compound offormula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof to prepare amedicament for treating a disease or disorder (e.g., a liver disease ora viral infection, such as a hepatitis B virus infection) in an animal.

In certain embodiments, the animal is a mammal, such as a human (e.g.,an HBV infected patient).

In one embodiment a compound of formula I has the following formula(Id):

wherein:

R^(1d) is selected from:

X^(d) is C₂₋₁₀ alkylene;

n^(d) is 0 or 1;

R^(2d) is a double stranded siRNA molecule selected from the doublestranded siRNA of Table 1; and

R^(3d) is H, a protecting group, a covalent bond to a solid support, ora bond to a linking group that is bound to a solid support.

In one embodiment R^(3d) includes a linking group that joins theremainder of the compound of formula Id to a solid support. The natureof the linking group is not critical provided the compound is a suitableintermediate for preparing a compound of formula Id wherein R^(2d) is adouble stranded siRNA molecule selected from the double stranded siRNAof Table 1.

In one embodiment the linker in R^(3d) has a molecular weight of fromabout 20 daltons to about 1,000 daltons.

In one embodiment the linker in R^(3d) has a molecular weight of fromabout 20 daltons to about 500 daltons.

In one embodiment the linker in R^(3d) separates the solid support fromthe remainder of the compound of formula I by about 5 angstroms to about40 angstroms, inclusive, in length.

In one embodiment the linker in R^(3d) is a divalent, branched orunbranched, saturated or unsaturated, hydrocarbon chain, having from 2to 15 carbon atoms, wherein one or more (e.g. 1, 2, 3, or 4) of thecarbon atoms is optionally replaced by (—O—) or (—N(H)—), and whereinthe chain is optionally substituted on carbon with one or more (e.g. 1,2, 3, or 4) substituents selected from (C₁-C₆)alkoxy, (C₃-C₆)cycloalkyl,(C₁-C₆)alkanoyl, (C₁-C₆)alkanoyloxy, (C₁—C₆)alkoxycarbonyl,(C₁-C₆)alkylthio, azido, cyano, nitro, halo, hydroxy, oxo (═O), carboxy,aryl, aryloxy, heteroaryl, and heteroaryloxy.

In one embodiment the linker in R^(3d) is a divalent, branched orunbranched, saturated or unsaturated, hydrocarbon chain, having from 2to 10 carbon atoms, wherein one or more (e.g. 1, 2, 3, or 4) of thecarbon atoms is optionally replaced by (—O—) or (—N(H)—), and whereinthe chain is optionally substituted on carbon with one or more (e.g. 1,2, 3, or 4) substituents selected from (C₁-C₆)alkoxy, (C₃-C₆)cycloalkyl,(C₁-C₆)alkanoyl, (C₁-C₆)alkanoyloxy, (C₁-C₆)alkoxycarbonyl,(C₁-C₆)alkylthio, azido, cyano, nitro, halo, hydroxy, oxo (═O), carboxy,aryl, aryloxy, heteroaryl, and heteroaryloxy.

In one embodiment the linker in R^(3d) is —C(═O)CH₂CH₂C(═O)N(H)—.

In one embodiment R^(1d) is:

In one embodiment R^(1d) is:

In one embodiment X^(d) is C₈alkylene.

In one embodiment n^(d) is 0.

In one embodiment R^(2d) is an siRNA.

In one embodiment R^(3d) is H.

In another embodiment a compound of (Id) or the salt thereof is selectedfrom the group consisting of.

and salts thereof.

One aspect of this invention is a pharmaceutical composition comprisinga compound of formula (Id), and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.

One aspect of this invention is a method to deliver is a double strandedsiRNA to the liver of an animal comprising administering a compound offormula (Id) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, to theanimal.

Another aspect of this invention is a method to treat a disease ordisorder (e.g., a viral infection, such as a hepatitis B viralinfection) in an animal comprising administering a compound of formula(Id) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, to the animal.

Certain embodiments of the invention provide a compound of formula (Id)or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof for use in medicaltherapy.

Certain embodiments of the invention provide a compound of formula (Id)or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof for the prophylactic ortherapeutic treatment of a disease or disorder (e.g., a viral infection,such as a hepatitis B virus infection) in an animal.

Certain embodiments of the invention provide the use of a compound offormula (Id) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof to prepare amedicament for treating a disease or disorder (e.g., a viral infection,such as a hepatitis B virus infection) in an animal.

In certain embodiments, the animal is a mammal, such as a human (e.g.,an HBV infected patient).

The invention also provides synthetic intermediates and methodsdisclosed herein that are useful to prepare compounds of formula (Id).For example, the invention includes an intermediate compound of formulaIe:

or a salt thereof, wherein:

R^(1d) is selected from:

X^(d) is C₂₋₈ alkylene;

n^(d) is 0 or 1;

Pg¹ is H or a suitable protecting group; and

R^(3d) is H, a protecting group, a covalent bond to a solid support, ora bond to a linking group that is bound to a solid support. FIG. 1illustrates a representative intermediate compound of formula (Ie),wherein a targeting ligand/linker is bound to a solid phase support, andwherein Pg¹ is the protecting group DMTr.

In one embodiment Pg¹ is TMTr (Trimethoxytrityl), DMTr(Dimethoxytrityl), MMTr (Monomethoxytrityl), or Tr (Trityl).

The invention also provides a method to prepare a compound of formula(Id) as described herein comprising subjecting a corresponding compoundof formula (Ie):

wherein:

X^(d) is C₂₋₈ alkylene;

n^(d) is 0 or 1;

Pg¹ is H; and

R^(3d) is a covalent bond to a solid support or a bond to a linkinggroup that is bound to a solid support, to solid phase nucleic acidsynthesis conditions to provide a corresponding compound of formula Idwherein R^(2d) is a double stranded siRNA molecule selected from thedouble stranded siRNA molecules of Table 1.

In one embodiment the method further comprises removing the compoundfrom the solid support to provide the corresponding compound of formulaId wherein R^(3d) is H.

In one embodiment the compound is not a compound formula Id:

or a salt thereof, wherein:

R^(1d) is selected from:

X^(d) is C₂₋₁₀ alkylene;

N^(d) is 0 or 1;

R^(2d) is a double stranded siRNA molecule selected from the doublestranded siRNA molecules of Table 1; and

R^(3d) is H, a protecting group, a covalent bond to a solid support, ora bond to a linking group that is bound to a solid support.

In one embodiment the compound is not a compound formula Ie:

or a salt thereof, wherein:

R^(1d) is selected from:

X^(d) is C₂₋₈ alkylene;

n^(d) is 0 or 1;

Pg¹ is H or a suitable protecting group; and

R^(3d) is H, a protecting group, a covalent bond to a solid support, ora bond to a linking group that is bound to a solid support.

In one embodiment R^(3d) is H.

In one embodiment R^(3d) is a covalent bond to a solid support.

In one embodiment R^(3d) is a bond to a linking group that is bound to asolid support, wherein the linking group is a divalent, branched orunbranched, saturated or unsaturated, hydrocarbon chain, having from 2to 15 carbon atoms, wherein one or more (e.g. 1, 2, 3, or 4) of thecarbon atoms is optionally replaced by (—O—) or (—N(H)—), and whereinthe chain is optionally substituted on carbon with one or more (e.g. 1,2, 3, or 4) substituents selected from (C₁-C₆)alkoxy, (C₃-C₆)cycloalkyl,(C₁-C₆)alkanoyl, (C₁-C₆)alkanoyloxy, (C₁-C₆)alkoxycarbonyl,(C₁-C₆)alkylthio, azido, cyano, nitro, halo, hydroxy, oxo (═O), carboxy,aryl, aryloxy, heteroaryl, and heteroaryloxy.

In one embodiment R^(3d) is a bond to a linking group that is bound to asolid support, wherein the linking group is a divalent, branched orunbranched, saturated or unsaturated, hydrocarbon chain, having from 2to 10 carbon atoms, wherein one or more (e.g. 1, 2, 3, or 4) of thecarbon atoms is optionally replaced by (—O—) or (—N(H)—), and whereinthe chain is optionally substituted on carbon with one or more (e.g. 1,2, 3, or 4) substituents selected from (C₁-C₆)alkoxy, (C₃-C₆)cycloalkyl,(C₁-C₆)alkanoyl, (C₁-C₆)alkanoyloxy, (C₁-C₆)alkoxycarbonyl,(C₁-C₆)alkylthio, azido, cyano, nitro, halo, hydroxy, oxo (═O), carboxy,aryl, aryloxy, heteroaryl, and heteroaryloxy.

In one embodiment R^(3d) is a bond to a linking group that is bound to asolid support, wherein the linking group is —C(═O)CH₂CH₂C(═O)N(H)—.

In one embodiment the invention provides a compound of formula (I):

wherein:

R¹ is H or a synthetic activating group;

L¹ is absent or a linking group;

L² is absent or a linking group;

R² is a double stranded siRNA molecule selected from the double strandedsiRNA molecules of Table 1;

the ring A is absent, a 3-20 membered cycloalkyl, a 5-20 membered aryl,a 5-20 membered heteroaryl, or a 3-20 membered heterocycloalkyl;

each R^(A) is independently selected from the group consisting ofhydrogen, hydroxy, CN, F, Cl, Br, I, —C₁₋₂ alkyl-OR^(B), C₁₋₁₀ alkylC₂₋₁₀ alkenyl, and C₂₋₁₀ alkynyl; wherein the C₁₋₁₀ alkyl C₂₋₁₀ alkenyl,and C₂₋₁₀ alkynyl are optionally substituted with one or more groupsindependently selected from halo, hydroxy, and C₁₋₃ alkoxy;

R^(B) is hydrogen, a protecting group, a covalent bond to a solidsupport, or a bond to a linking group that is bound to a solid support;and

n is 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10;

or a salt thereof.

In one embodiment the invention provides a compound of formula (I):

wherein:

R¹ a is targeting ligand;

L¹ is absent or a linking group;

L² is absent or a linking group;

R² is H or a synthetic activating group;

the ring A is absent, a 3-20 membered cycloalkyl, a 5-20 membered aryl,a 5-20 membered heteroaryl, or a 3-20 membered heterocycloalkyl;

each R^(A) is independently selected from the group consisting ofhydrogen, hydroxy, CN, F, Cl, Br, I, —C₁₋₂ alkyl-OR^(B), C₁₋₁₀ alkylC₂₋₁₀ alkenyl, and C₂₋₁₀ alkynyl; wherein the C₁₋₁₀ alkyl C₂₋₁₀ alkenyl,and C₂₋₁₀ alkynyl are optionally substituted with one or more groupsindependently selected from halo, hydroxy, and C₁₋₃ alkoxy;

R^(B) is hydrogen, a protecting group, a covalent bond to a solidsupport, or a bond to a linking group that is bound to a solid support;and

n is 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10;

or a salt thereof.

In one embodiment the invention provides a compound of formula (Ig):

wherein:

B is —N— or —CH—;

L² is C₁₋₄ alkylene-O— that is optionally substituted with hydroxyl orhalo; and

n is 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7;

or a salt thereof.

In one embodiment the invention provides a compound selected from thegroup consisting of:

wherein:

Q is -L¹-R¹; and

R′ is C₁₋₉ alkyl, C₂₋₉ alkenyl or C₂₋₉ alkynyl; wherein the C₁₋₉ alkyl,C₂₋₉ alkenyl or C₂₋₉ alkynyl are optionally substituted with halo orhydroxyl;

and salts thereof.

In one embodiment the invention provides a compound selected from thegroup consisting of:

wherein: Q is -L¹-R¹; and salts thereof.

In one embodiment the invention provides a compound of formula (Ig):

wherein:

B is —N— or —CH—;

L¹ is absent or a linking group;

L² is C₁₋₄ alkylene-O— that is optionally substituted with hydroxyl orhalo;

n is 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7;

R¹ is H or a synthetic activating group; and

R² is H or a synthetic activating group;

or a salt thereof.

In one embodiment the invention provides a compound selected from thegroup consisting of:

wherein Q is -L¹-R¹;

L¹ is absent or a linking group;

R′ is C₁₋₉ alkyl, C₂₋₉ alkenyl or C₂₋₉ alkynyl; wherein the C₁₋₉ alkyl,C₂₋₉ alkenyl or C₂₋₉ alkynyl are optionally substituted with halo orhydroxyl;

R¹ is H or a synthetic activating group; and

R² is H or a synthetic activating group;

or a salt thereof.

In one embodiment the invention provides a compound selected from thegroup consisting of:

wherein:

Q is -L¹-R¹;

L¹ is absent or a linking group;

R¹ is H or a synthetic activating group; and

R² is H or a synthetic activating group;

or a salt thereof.

In one embodiment R¹ is H or a synthetic activating group derivable fromDCC, HOBt, EDC, BOP, PyBOP or HBTU.

In one embodiment R² is H, acetate, triflate, mesylate or succinate.

In one embodiment R¹ is a synthetic activating group derivable from DCC,HOBt, EDC, BOP, PyBOP or HBTU.

In one embodiment R² is acetate, triflate, mesylate or succinate.

In one embodiment L¹ is a divalent, branched or unbranched, saturated orunsaturated, hydrocarbon chain, having from 5 to 20 carbon atoms,wherein one or more (e.g. 1, 2, 3, or 4) of the carbon atoms in thehydrocarbon chain is optionally replaced —O—, —NH—, —NH—C(═O)—,—C(═O)—NH— or —S—.

In one embodiment the invention provides a compound of formula (XX):

wherein:

R¹ a is targeting ligand;

L¹ is absent or a linking group;

L² is absent or a linking group;

R² is a double stranded siRNA molecule selected from the double strandedsiRNA molecules of Table 1;

B is divalent and is selected from the group consisting of:

wherein:

each R′ is independently C₁₋₉ alkyl, C₂₋₉ alkenyl or C₂₋₉ alkynyl;wherein the C₁₋₉ alkyl, C₂₋₉ alkenyl or C₂₋₉ alkynyl are optionallysubstituted with halo or hydroxyl;

the valence marked with * is attached to L¹ or is attached to R¹ if L¹is absent; and

the valence marked with ** is attached to L² or is attached to R² if L²is absent;

or a salt thereof.

In one embodiment R¹ comprises 2-8 saccharides.

In one embodiment R¹ comprises 2-6 saccharides.

In one embodiment R¹ comprises 2-4 saccharides.

In one embodiment R¹ comprises 3-8 saccharides.

In one embodiment R¹ comprises 3-6 saccharides.

In one embodiment R¹ comprises 3-4 saccharides.

In one embodiment R¹ comprises 3 saccharides.

In one embodiment R¹ comprises 4 saccharides.

In one embodiment R¹ has the following formula:

wherein:

B¹ is a trivalent group comprising about 1 to about 20 atoms and iscovalently bonded to L¹, T¹, and T².

B² is a trivalent group comprising about 1 to about 20 atoms and iscovalently bonded to T¹, T³, and T⁴;

B³ is a trivalent group comprising about 1 to about 20 atoms and iscovalently bonded to T², T, and T⁶;

T¹ is absent or a linking group;

T² is absent or a linking group;

T³ is absent or a linking group;

T⁴ is absent or a linking group;

T⁵ is absent or a linking group; and

T⁶ is absent or a linking group

In one embodiment each saccharide is independently selected from:

wherein:

X is NR³, and Y is selected from —(C═O)R⁴, —SO₂R⁵, and —(C═O)NR⁶R⁷; or Xis —(C═O)— and Y is NR⁸R⁹;

R³ is hydrogen or (C₁-C₄)alkyl;

R⁴, R⁵, R⁶, R⁷, R¹ and R⁹ are each independently selected from the groupconsisting of hydrogen, (C₁-C₈)alkyl, (C₁-C₈)haloalkyl, (C₁-C₈)alkoxyand (C₃-C₆)cycloalkyl that is optionally substituted with one or moregroups independently selected from the group consisting of halo,(C₁-C₄)alkyl, (C₁-C₄)haloalkyl, (C₁-C₄)alkoxy and (C₁-C₄)haloalkoxy;

R¹⁰ is —OH, —NR⁸R⁹ or —F; and

R¹¹ is —OH, —NR⁸R⁹, —F or 5 membered heterocycle that is optionallysubstituted with one or more groups independently selected from thegroup consisting of halo, hydroxyl, carboxyl, amino, (C₁-C₄)alkyl,(C₁-C₄)haloalkyl, (C₁-C₄)alkoxy and (C₁-C₄)haloalkoxy.

In one embodiment each saccharide is independently selected from thegroup consisting of:

In one embodiment each saccharide is independently:

In one embodiment one of T¹ and T² is absent.

In one embodiment both T¹ and T² are absent.

In one embodiment each of T¹, T², T³, T⁴, T⁵, and T⁶ is independentlyabsent or a branched or unbranched, saturated or unsaturated,hydrocarbon chain, having from 1 to 50 carbon atoms, wherein one or more(e.g. 1, 2, 3, or 4) of the carbon atoms in the hydrocarbon chain isoptionally replaced by —O—, —NR^(X)—, —NR^(X)—C(═O)—, —C(═O)—NR^(X)— or—S—, and wherein R^(X) is hydrogen or (C₁-C₆)alkyl, and wherein thehydrocarbon chain, is optionally substituted with one or more (e.g. 1,2, 3, or 4) substituents selected from (C₁-C₆)alkoxy, (C₃-C₆)cycloalkyl,(C₁-C₆)alkanoyl, (C₁-C₆)alkanoyloxy, (C₁-C₆)alkoxycarbonyl,(C₁-C₆)alkylthio, azido, cyano, nitro, halo, hydroxy, oxo (═O), carboxy,aryl, aryloxy, heteroaryl, and heteroaryloxy.

In one embodiment each of T¹, T², T³, T⁴, T⁵, and T⁶ is independentlyabsent or a branched or unbranched, saturated or unsaturated,hydrocarbon chain, having from 1 to 20 carbon atoms, wherein one or more(e.g. 1, 2, 3, or 4) of the carbon atoms in the hydrocarbon chain isoptionally replaced by —O—, —NR^(X)—, —NR^(X)—C(═O)—, —C(═O)—NR^(X)— or—S—, and wherein R^(X) is hydrogen or (C₁-C₆)alkyl, and wherein thehydrocarbon chain, is optionally substituted with one or more (e.g. 1,2, 3, or 4) substituents selected from (C₁-C₆)alkoxy, (C₃-C₆)cycloalkyl,(C₁-C₆)alkanoyl, (C₁-C₆)alkanoyloxy, (C₁-C₆)alkoxycarbonyl,(C₁-C₆)alkylthio, azido, cyano, nitro, halo, hydroxy, oxo (═O), carboxy,aryl, aryloxy, heteroaryl, and heteroaryloxy.

In one embodiment each of T¹, T², T³, T⁴, T⁵, and T⁶ is independentlyabsent or a branched or unbranched, saturated or unsaturated,hydrocarbon chain, having from 1 to 50 carbon atoms, or a salt thereof,wherein one or more (e.g. 1, 2, 3, or 4) of the carbon atoms in thehydrocarbon chain is optionally replaced by —O— or —NR^(X)—, and whereinR^(X) is hydrogen or (C₁-C₆)alkyl, and wherein the hydrocarbon chain, isoptionally substituted with one or more (e.g. 1, 2, 3, or 4)substituents selected from halo, hydroxy, and oxo (═O).

In one embodiment each of T¹, T², T³, T⁴, T⁵, and T⁶ is independentlyabsent or a branched or unbranched, saturated or unsaturated,hydrocarbon chain, having from 1 to 20 carbon atoms, wherein one or more(e.g. 1, 2, 3, or 4) of the carbon atoms in the hydrocarbon chain isoptionally replaced by —O— and wherein the hydrocarbon chain, isoptionally substituted with one or more (e.g. 1, 2, 3, or 4)substituents selected from halo, hydroxy, and oxo (═O).

In one embodiment each of T¹, T², T³, T⁴, T⁵, and T⁶ is independentlyabsent or a branched or unbranched, saturated or unsaturated,hydrocarbon chain, having from 1 to 20 carbon atoms, wherein one or more(e.g. 1, 2, 3, or 4) of the carbon atoms in the hydrocarbon chain isoptionally replaced by —O— and wherein the hydrocarbon chain, isoptionally substituted with one or more (e.g. 1, 2, 3, or 4)substituents selected from halo, hydroxy, and oxo (═O).

In one embodiment at least one of T³, T⁴, T⁵, and T⁶ is:

wherein:

n=1, 2, 3.

In one embodiment each of T³, T⁴, T⁵ and T⁶ is independently selectedfrom the group consisting of:

wherein:

n=1, 2, 3.

In one embodiment at least one of T¹ and T² is glycine

In one embodiment each of T¹ and T² is glycine.

In one embodiment B¹ is a trivalent group comprising 1 to 15 atoms andis covalently bonded to L¹, T¹, and T².

In one embodiment B¹ is a trivalent group comprising 1 to 10 atoms andis covalently bonded to L¹, T¹, and T².

In one embodiment B¹ comprises a (C₁-C₆)alkyl.

In one embodiment B¹ comprises a C₃₋₈ cycloalkyl.

In one embodiment B¹ comprises a silyl group.

In one embodiment B¹ comprises a D- or L-amino acid.

In one embodiment B¹ comprises a saccharide.

In one embodiment B¹ comprises a phosphate group.

In one embodiment B¹ comprises a phosphonate group.

In one embodiment B¹ comprises an aryl.

In one embodiment B¹ comprises a phenyl ring.

In one embodiment B is a phenyl ring.

In one embodiment B is CH.

In one embodiment B comprises a heteroaryl.

In one embodiment B is selected from the group consisting of:

In one embodiment B is selected from the group consisting of:

In one embodiment B² is a trivalent group comprising 1 to 15 atoms andis covalently bonded to L¹, T¹, and T².

In one embodiment B² is a trivalent group comprising 1 to 10 atoms andis covalently bonded to L¹, T¹, and T².

In one embodiment B² comprises a (C₁-C₆)alkyl

In one embodiment B² comprises a C₃₋₈ cycloalkyl.

In one embodiment B² comprises a silyl group.

In one embodiment B² comprises a D- or L-amino acid.

In one embodiment B² comprises a saccharide.

In one embodiment B² comprises a phosphate group.

In one embodiment B² comprises a phosphonate group.

In one embodiment B² comprises an aryl.

In one embodiment B² comprises a phenyl ring.

In one embodiment B² is a phenyl ring.

In one embodiment B² is CH.

In one embodiment B² comprises a heteroaryl.

In one embodiment B² is selected from the group consisting of:

In one embodiment B² is selected from the group consisting of:

or a salt thereof.

In one embodiment B³ is a trivalent group comprising 1 to 15 atoms andis covalently bonded to L¹, T¹, and T².

In one embodiment B³ is a trivalent group comprising 1 to 10 atoms andis covalently bonded to L¹, T¹, and T².

In one embodiment B³ comprises a (C₁-C₆)alkyl.

In one embodiment B³ comprises a C₃₋₈ cycloalkyl.

In one embodiment B³ comprises a silyl group.

In one embodiment B³ comprises a D- or L-amino acid.

In one embodiment B³ comprises a saccharide.

In one embodiment B³ comprises a phosphate group.

In one embodiment B³ comprises a phosphonate group.

In one embodiment B³ comprises an aryl.

In one embodiment B³ comprises a phenyl ring.

In one embodiment B³ is a phenyl ring.

In one embodiment B³ is CH.

In one embodiment B³ comprises a heteroaryl.

In one embodiment B³ is selected from the group consisting of:

In one embodiment B³ is selected from the group consisting of:

or a salt thereof.

In one embodiment L¹ and L² are independently a divalent, branched orunbranched, saturated or unsaturated, hydrocarbon chain, having from 1to 50 carbon atoms, wherein one or more (e.g. 1, 2, 3, or 4) of thecarbon atoms in the hydrocarbon chain is optionally replaced by —O—,—NR^(X)—, —NR^(X)—C(═O)—, —C(═O)—NR^(X)— or —S—, and wherein R^(X) ishydrogen or (C₁-C₆)alkyl, and wherein the hydrocarbon chain, isoptionally substituted with one or more (e.g. 1, 2, 3, or 4)substituents selected from (C₁-C₆)alkoxy, (C₃-C₆)cycloalkyl,(C₁-C₆)alkanoyl, (C₁-C₆)alkanoyloxy, (C₁-C₆)alkoxycarbonyl,(C₁-C₆)alkylthio, azido, cyano, nitro, halo, hydroxy, oxo (═O), carboxy,aryl, aryloxy, heteroaryl, and heteroaryloxy.

In one embodiment L is selected from the group consisting of:

or a salt thereof.

In one embodiment L is connected to B¹ through a linkage selected fromthe group consisting of: —O—, —S—, —(C═O)—, —(C═O)—NH—, —NH—(C═O),—(C═O)—O—, —NH—(C═O)—NH—, or —NH—(SO₂)—.

In one embodiment L is selected from the group consisting of:

In one embodiment L² is connected to R² through —O—.

In one embodiment L² is C₁₋₄ alkylene-O— that is optionally substitutedwith hydroxy.

In one embodiment L² is connected to R² through —O—.

In one embodiment L² is absent.

In one embodiment the invention provides a compound or salt selectedfrom the group consisting of:

and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein R² is a doublestranded siRNA molecule selected from the double stranded siRNAmolecules of Table 1.

In one embodiment the invention provides a compound of formula:

or a salt thereof wherein R² is a nucleic acid.

In one embodiment the invention provides a compound of formula:

or a salt thereof wherein R² is a nucleic acid.

In one embodiment, the nucleic acid molecule (e.g., siRNA) is attachedto the reminder of the compound through the oxygen of a phosphate at the3′-end of the sense strand.

In one embodiment the compound or salt is administered subcutaneously.

When a compound comprises a group of the following formula:

there are four stereoisomers possible on the ring, two cis and twotrans. Unless otherwise noted, the compounds of the invention includeall four stereoisomers about such a ring. In one embodiment, the two R′groups are in a cis conformation. In one embodiment, the two R′ groupsare in a trans conformation.

One aspect of the invention is a nucleic acid-lipid particle comprising:

-   -   (a) one or more double stranded siRNA molecules selected from        the double stranded siRNA molecules of Table 1;    -   (b) a cationic lipid; and    -   (c) a non-cationic lipid.

EXAMPLES

The present invention will be described in greater detail by way ofspecific examples. The following examples are offered for illustrativepurposes, and are not intended to limit the invention in any manner.Those of skill in the art will readily recognize a variety ofnoncritical parameters which can be changed or modified to yieldessentially the same results. It is understood that in one embodimentthe oligonucleotide is a double stranded siRNA molecule as described inTable 1.

Example 1. Synthesis of Conjugate 1

Step 1. Preparation of 2-(2-(2-(2-hydroxyethoxy)ethoxy)ethoxy)ethyl4-methylbenzenesulfonate 3

A solution of tetraethylene glycol (934 g, 4.8 mol) in THE (175 mL) andaqueous NaOH (5M, 145 mL) was cooled (0° C.) and treated withp-Toluensulfonyl chloride (91.4 g, 480 mmol) dissolved in THE (605 mL)and then stirred for two hours (0° C.). The reaction mixture was dilutedwith water (3 L) and extracted (3×500 mL) with CH₂Cl₂. The combinedextracts were washed with water and brine then dried (MgSO₄), filteredand concentrated to afford 2-(2-(2-(2-hydroxyethoxy)ethoxy)ethoxy)ethyl4-methylbenzenesulfonate 3 (140 g, 84%) as a pale yellow oil. R_(f)(0.57, 10% MeOH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 2. Preparation of 2-(2-(2-(2-azidoethoxy)ethoxy)ethoxy)ethan-1-ol 4

A solution of 3 (140 g, 403 mmol) in DMF (880 mL) was treated withsodium azide (131 g, 2.02 mol) and heated (45° C.) overnight. A majorityof the DMF was removed under reduced pressure and the residue wasdissolved in CH₂Cl₂ (500 mL) and washed (3×500 mL) with brine then dried(MgSO₄), filtered and concentrated. The residue was passed through ashort bed of silica (5% MeOH—CH₂Cl₂) and concentrated to yield2-(2-(2-(2-azidoethoxy)ethoxy)ethoxy)ethan-1-ol 4 (65 g, 74%) as ayellow oil. R_(f) (0.56, 10% MeOH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 3. Preparation of Peracetylated Galactosamine 6

D-Galactosamine hydrochloride 5 (250 g, 1.16 mol) in pyridine (1.5 L)was treated with acetic anhydride (1.25 L, 13.2 mol) over 45 minutes.After stirring overnight the reaction mixture was divided into three 1 Lportions. Each 1 L portion was poured into 3 L of ice water and mixedfor one hour. After mixing the solids were filtered off, combined,frozen over liquid nitrogen and then lyophilized for five days to yieldperacetylated galactosamine 6 (369.4 g, 82%) as a white solid. Rf (0.58,10% MeOH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 4. Preparation of(3aR,5R,6R,7R,7aR)-5-(acetoxymethyl)-2-methyl-3a,6,7,7a-tetrahydro-5H-pyrano[3,2-d]oxazole-6,7-diylDiacetate 7

A solution of per-acetylated galactosamine 6 (8.45 g, 21.7 mmol) inCHCl₃ (320 mL) was treated dropwise with TMSOTf (4.32 mL, 23.9 mmol).After stirring (1.5 hr, 40° C.) the reaction was quenched by theaddition of triethylamine (5 mL) and concentrated to dryness to affordcompound 7 as a pale yellow glass (7.2 g, Quant.). The product was usedwithout further purification. Rf (0.59, 10% MeOH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 5. Preparation of(2R,3R,4R,5R,6R)-5-acetamido-2-(acetoxymethyl)-6-(2-(2-(2-(2-azidoethoxy)ethoxy)ethoxy)ethoxy)tetrahydro-2H-pyran-3,4-diylDiacetate 8

Compound 7 (7.2 g, 21.7 mmol) and2-(2-(2-(2-azidoethoxy)ethoxy)ethoxy)ethan-1-ol 4 (2.65 g, 15.2 mmol)were azeotroped (3×) from toluene (150 mL) to remove traces of water.The dried material was dissolved in 1,2-dichloroethane (150 mL), cooled(−5° C.) and treated with TMSOTf (784 μL, 4.34 mmol). After stirringovernight the reaction was quenched by the addition of triethylamine (5mL) and concentrated. The residue was purified by chromatography (1%→5%MeOH—CH₂Cl₂) to afford 8 (7.12 g, 85%) as a brown oil. Rf (0.3, 10%MeOH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 6. Preparation of2-(2-(2-(2-(((2R,3R,4R,5R,6R)-3-acetamido-4,5-diacetoxy-6-(acetoxymethyl)tetrahydro-2H-pyran-2-yl)oxy)ethoxy)ethoxy)ethoxy)ethan-1-aminium2,2,2-trifluoroacetate 9

A solution of the azide 8 (7.12 g, 13 mmol) in EtOAc (150 mL) andtrifluoroacetic acid (2 mL) was treated with palladium on charcoal (1.5g, 10% w/w wet basis). The reaction mixture was then purged withhydrogen and stirred vigorously overnight. After purging with nitrogen,the mixture was filtered through Celite, rinsing with MeOH. The filtratewas concentrated and purified via chromatography (5% →10%→20%MeOH—CH₂Cl₂) to afford 9 (5.8 g, 72%) as a brown oil. Rf (0.34, 15%MeOH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 7. Preparation of Di-Tert-Butyl4-(((benzyloxy)carbonyl)amino)-4-(3-(tert-butoxy)-3-oxopropyl)heptanedioate11

To a solution of di-tert-butyl4-amino-4-(3-(tert-butoxy)-3-oxopropyl)heptanedioate 10 (13.5 g, 33mmol), 25% Na₂CO_(3 (aq))(150 mL) and dichloromethane (300 mL) was addedslowly benzyl chloroformate (14 mL, 98 mmol). The solution was stirredvigorously overnight (16 h) at room temperature. Upon completion,additional dichloromethane (100 mL) was added and the dichloromethanelayer was separated. The aqueous layer was extracted withdichloromethane (2×100 mL). The combine dichloromethane extracts weredried on magnesium sulfate, filtered and concentrated to dryness. Theproduct 11 was isolated as a colorless oil that required no furtherpurification (15.8 g, 88%). Rf (0.7, 1:1 EtOAc-Hexane).

Step 8. Preparation of4-(((benzyloxy)carbonyl)amino)-4-(2-carboxyethyl)heptanedioic Acid 12

A solution of 11 (15.6 g, 28.8 mmol) in formic acid (50 mL) was stirredat room temperature for 2 hours. The solution was concentrated todryness and dissolved in ethyl acetate (˜25 mL). Upon standing, theproduct crystallized as a colorless solid. The solid was filtered,washed with ethyl acetate and air dried to afford 12 as a colorlesssolid (10.2 g, 93%). Rf (0.1, 10% MeOH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 9. Preparation of Compound 13

A solution of 12 (793 mg, 2.08 mmol) and 9 (5.8 g, 9.36 mmol) in DMF (50mL) was treated with BOP (3.67 g, 8.32 mmol) thenN,N-diisopropylethylamine (4.31 mL, 25 mmol). After stirring overnightthe mixture was concentrated to dryness and subjected to chromatography(1%→2%→5%→10%→15% MeOH—CH₂Cl₂) to afford 13 (5.71 g[crude], >100%—contained coupling by-products that did not affect thenext step). Rf (0.45, 10% MeOH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 10. Preparation of Compound 14

Compound 13 (5.7 g) was dissolved in MeOH (150 mL) and TFA (1.5 mL) andtreated with palladium on charcoal (1 g, 10% w/w wet basis). Thereaction mixture was then purged with hydrogen and stirred vigorouslyovernight. After purging with nitrogen, the mixture was filtered throughCelite, rinsing with MeOH. The filtrate was concentrated and purifiedvia chromatography (5%→10%→20% MeOH—CH₂Cl₂) to afford 14 as a brown oil(2.15 g, 56% over two steps). Rf (0.32, 10% MeOH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 11. Preparation of (5-amino-1,3-phenylene)dimethanol 15

A solution of dimethyl 5-aminoisophthalate (20.0 g, 96 mmol) in THF (350mL) was added, dropwise, to a refluxing mixture of 3.75 eq LiAlH₄ (13.6g, 358 mmol) in THE (440 mL) over one hour. The mixture was stirred atreflux for a further two hours, then cooled to room temperature andquenched by the careful addition of MeOH (27 mL) then water (40 mL).After stirring the quenched mixture for two hours it was filtered andconcentrated to dryness. The residue was recrystallized (2×) from EtOActo afford 15 as brownish-yellow crystals (10.2 g, 70%).

Step 12. Preparation of Methyl10-((3,5-bis(hydroxymethyl)phenyl)amino)-10-oxodecanoate 16

A solution of methyl sebacate (3.8 g, 17 mmol), 15 (2.5 g, 17 mmol) andEEDQ (8.1 g, 33 mmol) in 2:1 dichloromethane/methanol (200 mL) wasstirred at room temperature for 2 hours. Upon completion the solutionwas concentrated to dryness. The solid obtained was triturated withdichloromethane (50 mL) and filtered. The solid was rinsed with colddichloromethane and air dried to afford 16 as a colorless solid (4.3 g,72%). Rf (0.33, EtOAc).

Step 13. Preparation of Methyl10-((3-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)methyl)-5-(hydroxymethyl)phenyl)amino)-10-oxodecanoate17

To a solution of 16 (4.3 g, 12 mmol) in pyridine (50 mL) was added4,4′-(chloro(phenyl)methylene)bis(methoxybenzene) (4.1 g, 12 mmol). Thesolution was stirred under nitrogen overnight at room temperature. Uponcompletion the solution was concentrated to dryness and the residue waspurified by column chromatography (0.5% →0.75% →1%→1.5% MeOH—CH₂Cl₂) toafford 17 as a yellow solid (2.9 g, 35%). Rf (0.6, 10% MeOH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 14. Preparation of Lithium10-((3-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)methyl)-5-(hydroxymethyl)phenyl)amino)-10-oxodecanoate18

To a solution of 17 (2.9 g, 4.3 mmol) in THE (60 mL) was added water (15mL) and lithium hydroxide (112 mg, 4.7 mmol). The solution was stirredovernight at room temperature. Upon completion the solution wasconcentrated to remove the THF. The remaining aqueous solution was flashfrozen on liquid nitrogen and lyophilized overnight to afford acolorless solid (2.9 g, quant.). Rf (0.3, 10% MeOH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 15. Preparation of Compound 19

To a solution 14 (454 mg, 0.67 mmol), 18 (1.25 g, 0.67 mmol) and HBTU(381 mg, 1.0 mmol) in anhydrous DMF (25 mL) was added N, N-diisopropylethyl amine (0.35 mL, 2.0 mmol). The solution was stirred overnight atroom temperature. Upon completion, the solution was poured into ethylacetate (250 mL) and washed with brine (3×200 mL). The ethyl acetatelayer was dried on magnesium sulfate, filtered and concentration todryness. Purification by column chromatography (5%→7.5%→10%→15% MeOH inCH₂Cl₂) afforded 19 as a pale orange foam (1.5 g, 94%). Rf (0.25, 10%MeOH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 16. Preparation of Compound 20

A solution of compound 19 (1.5 g, 0.6 mmol), succinic anhydride (120 mg,1.2 mmol), DMAP (220 mg, 1.8 mmol) and trimethylamine (250 μL, 1.8 mmol)in anhydrous CH₂Cl₂ (50 mL) was stirred overnight at room temperature.Upon completion, the solution was concentrated to dryness and filteredthrough a short plug of silica (100% CH₂Cl₂→15% MeOH in CH₂Cl₂) toafford the product 20 as a light beige foam (1.1 g, 70%). Mass m/z(ES-TOF MS) 727.7 [M+3H−DMTr]⁺, 1091.1 [M+2H−DMTr]. ¹H NMR (400 MHz,CDCl₃) δ 8.92 (br s, 1H), 7.78 (s, 1H), 7.49-7.47 (m, 3H), 7.41 (br s,1H), 7.38-7.34 (m, 5H), 7.32-7.26 (m, 4H), 7.24-7.08 (br s, 3H), 7.08(s, 1H), 6.90-6.80 (m, 7H), 5.31 (d, 3H, J=2.7 Hz), 5.12 (s, 2H), 5.06(dd, 3H, J=11.2, 3.2 Hz), 4.78 (d, 3H, J=8.5 Hz), 4.24-4.08 (m, 12H),3.95-3.88 (m, 7H), 3.85-3.76 (m, 4H), 3.78 (s, 6H), 3.68-3.56 (m, 34H),3.54-3.44 (m, 8H), 3.41-3.33 (m, 6H), 2.70-2.60 (m, 4H), 2.52-2.30 (m,30H), 2.24-2.16 (m, 8H), 2.14 (s, 9H), 2.04 (s, 9H), 2.02-1.96 (m, 6H),1.98 (s, 9H), 1.96 (s, 9H), 1.74-1.52 (m, 4H), 1.36-1.24 (m, 12H).

Step 17. Preparation of Conjugate 1

The succinate 20 was loaded onto 1000 Å LCAA (long chain aminoalkyl) CPG(control pore glass) using standard amide coupling chemistry. A solutionof diisopropylcarbodiimide (52.6 μmol), N-hydroxy succinimide (0.3 mg,2.6 μmol) and pyridine (10 μL) in anhydrous acetonitrile (0.3 mL) wasadded to 20 (20.6 mg, 8 μmol) in anhydrous dichloromethane (0.2 mL).This mixture was added to LCAA CPG (183 mg). The suspension was gentlymixed overnight at room temperature. Upon disappearance of 20 (HPLC),the reaction mixture was filtered and the CPG was washed with 1 mL ofeach dichloromethane, acetonitrile, a solution of 5% acetic anhydride/5%N-methylimidazole/5% pyridine in THF, then THF, acetonitrile anddichloromethane. The CPG was then dried overnight under high vacuum.Loading was determined by standard DMTr assay by UV/Vis (504 nm) to be25 μmol/g. The resulting GalNAc loaded CPG solid support was employed inautomated oligonucleotide synthesis using standard procedures.Nucleotide deprotection followed by removal from the solid support (withconcurrent galactosamine acetate deprotection) afforded theGalNAc-oligonucleotide conjugate 1 as a representative example.

Example 2: Synthesis of Conjugate 34

Step 1. Preparation of Di-Tert-Butyl4-(2-(((benzyloxy)carbonyl)amino)acetamido)-4-(3-(tert-butoxy)-3-oxopropyl)heptanedioate21

A solution of di-tert-butyl4-amino-4-(3-(tert-butoxy)-3-oxopropyl)heptanedioate (25 g, 60 mmol) andZ-glycine (18.9 g, 90.2 mmol) in CH₂Cl₂ (300 mL) was treatedsuccessively with EDC (23 g, 120 mmol), Diisopropylethylamine (32 mL,180 mmol) and DMAP (Cat. 17 mg). After stirring (16 h) the reactionmixture was poured into NaHCO₃ (Sat. Aq.), extracted with CH₂Cl₂, washedwith brine, dried (MgSO₄), filtered and concentrated to afforddi-tert-butyl4-(2-(((benzyloxy)carbonyl)amino)acetamido)-4-(3-(tert-butoxy)-3-oxopropyl)heptanedioate21 as an amorphous solid and was used without further processing (36 g,quant.). Rf (0.85, 10% MeOH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 2. Preparation of4-(2-(((benzyloxy)carbonyl)amino)acetamido)-4-(2-carboxyethyl)heptanedioicAcid 22

A solution of di-tert-butyl4-(2-(((benzyloxy)carbonyl)amino)acetamido)-4-(3-(tert-butoxy)-3-oxopropyl)heptanedioate21 (59.3 mmol, 36 g) was stirred in neat formic acid (150 mL) for 72hours. Upon completion, the formic acid was removed under reducedpressure and the crude solid was dried overnight on high-vacuum to yield22 as a colorless solid (15.9 g, 61%). Rf (0.15, 10% MeOH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 3. Preparation of Compound 23

A solution of 22 (6.2 g, 14.1 mmol) and2-(2-(2-(2-(((2R,3R,4R,5R,6R)-3-acetamido-4,5-diacetoxy-6-(acetoxymethyl)tetrahydro-2H-pyran-2-yl)oxy)ethoxy)ethoxy)ethoxy)ethan-1-aminium2,2,2-trifluoroacetate (35 g, 56.5 mmol) in DMF (250 mL) was treatedwith BOP (25 g, 56.5 mmol) then N,N-diisopropylethylamine (29 mL, 170mmol). After stirring overnight the mixture was concentrated to drynessand subjected to chromatography (100% CH₂Cl₂ to 15% MeOH—CH₂Cl₂) toafford compound 23 (24.6 g, 89%). Rf (0.55, 15% MeOH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 4. Preparation of Compound 24

Compound 23 (24.6 g) was dissolved in MeOH (200 mL) and TFA (1.5 mL) andpurged with nitrogen. Palladium on charcoal (1 g, 10% w/w wet basis) wasadded and then the reaction mixture was purged with hydrogen and stirredvigorously overnight. Upon completion, the reaction was purged withnitrogen, filtered through Celite and rinsed with MeOH. The filtrate wasconcentrated and purified by column chromatography on silica gel 60(gradient: 5%→10%→20% MeOH—CH₂Cl₂) to afford 24 as a pale brown viscousoil (23 g).

Rf (0.32, 10% MeOH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 5. Preparation of (5-amino-1,3-phenylene)dimethanol 26

A suspension of lithium aluminum hydride (13.6 g, 358 mmol) in anhydroustetrahydrofuran (450 mL) was brought to reflux under a nitrogenatmosphere and treated, dropwise, with a solution ofdimethyl-5-aminoisophthalte 25 (20 g, 96 mmol) in anhydroustetrahydrofuran (350 mL). After the addition was complete the mixturewas heated to reflux for an additional 2 hours. Upon completion, thesolution was cooled to room temperature and quenched by the slowaddition of MeOH (27 mL) then water (40 mL). After stirring for 2 hoursthe mixture was filtered, concentrated and recrystallized from EtOAc toyield (5-amino-1,3-phenylene)dimethanol 26 as off-white crystals (10.2g, 70%). Rf 0.5 (15% MeOH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 6. Preparation of 3,5-bis(hydroxymethyl)benzonitrile 27

A solution of 26 (5 g, 33 mmol) in 2N hydrochloric acid (100 mL) wascooled to 0° C. and treated with a cold solution of sodium nitrite (3.53g, 36 mmol) in water (50 mL). The reaction mixture was maintained at atemperature ≤5° C. for 30 min then treated with a solution of copper(I)cyanide (3.19 g, 35.6 mmol) and sodium cyanide (3.53 g, 72 mmol) inwater (50 mL) in a single portion. After stirring overnight at roomtemperature the mixture was filtered, extracted with dichloromethane(3×100 mL), concentrated and used without further purification. Thediol, 3,5-bis(hydroxymethyl)benzonitrile 27 was obtained as a yellowsolid (2.19 g, 41%). Rf 0.75 (15% MeOH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 7. Preparation of3-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)methyl)-5-(hydroxymethyl)benzonitrile28

A solution of 3,5-bis(hydroxymethyl)benzonitrile 27 (538 mg, 3.3 mmol)in pyridine (14 mL) was treated with 4,4′-Dimethoxytrityl chloride (1.17g, 3.46 mmol) and stirred overnight at room temperature. Once complete,the mixture was concentrated and dispersed in diethyl ether (25 mL),filtered and concentrated. The crude product was purified by columnchromatography of silica gel 60 (gradient: 10% to 50% EtOAc-Hexane) toyield the 28 as a yellow solid (725 mg, 47%). Rf 0.5 (1:1 EtOAc-hexane).

Step 8. Preparation of(3-(aminomethyl)-5-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)methyl)phenyl)methanol29

A solution of the 28 (100 mg, 0.22 mmol) in methyl tetrahydrofuran (5mL) was cooled to 0° C. and treated slowly with lithium aluminum hydride(0.64 mmol=0.28 mL of a 2.3M solution in MeTHF). After stirring for onehour the reaction was quenched by the addition of methanol (1 mL) thenwater (0.3 mL) and stirred for 30 min. The mixture was filtered andconcentrated, to yield(3-(aminomethyl)-5-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)methyl)phenyl)methanol29 (78 mg, 77%). Rf 0.15 (10% MeOH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 9. Preparation of Methyl10-((3-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)methyl)-5-(hydroxymethyl)benzyl)amino)-10-oxodecanoate30

A solution of(3-(aminomethyl)-5-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)-methyl)phenyl)methanol29 (78 mg, 0.17 mmol) and monomethyl sebacate (38 mg, 0.17 mmol) indichloromethane (5 mL) were treated successively with EDC (48 mg, 0.25mmol), DMAP (cat., 5 mg) and diisopropylethylamine (57 μL, 0.33 mmol).After stirring (3.5 hr) the reaction mixture was poured into saturatedsodium bicarbonate solution (50 mL). The sodium bicarbonate solution wasextracted with dichloromethane (3×50 mL), washed with brine (50 mL),dried on magnesium sulfate, filtered and concentrated to dryness. Thecrude material was purified by column chromatography on silica gel 60(gradient: 2% to 5% MeOH—CH₂Cl₂) to afford methyl10-((3-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)methyl)-5-(hydroxymethyl)benzyl)amino)-10-oxodecanoate30 as a yellow oil (57 mg, 53%). Rf 0.45 (10% MeOH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 10. Preparation of Lithium10-((3-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)methyl)-5-(hydroxymethyl)benzyl)amino)-10-oxodecanoate31

Compound 30 (188 mg, 0.28 mmol) was dissolved in tetrahydrofuran (5 mL)and treated with a solution of LiOH (7 mg, 0.30 mmol) in water (1 mL).Upon completion, the tetrahydrofuran was removed in vacuo and theremaining aqueous mixture was frozen and lyophilized to afford lithium10-((3-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)methyl)-5-(hydroxymethyl)benzyl)amino)-10-oxodecanoate31 as a colorless solid (180 mg, 99%). Rf 0.45 (10% MeOH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 11. Preparation of Compounds 32, 33, and 34

Compounds 32, 33 and 34 were prepared according to same procedure usedto synthesize compounds 19, 20, and 1 respectfully.

Example 3. Synthesis of Conjugate 36

Step 1. Preparation of Conjugate 36

Conjugate 36 was prepared using identical procedures as used tosynthesize compound 34 and all corresponding intermediates. The onlyexception being the synthesis of compound 6 where propanoic anhydridewas used in place of acetic anhydride.

Example 4. Synthesis of Conjugate 42

Step 1. Preparation of Compound 37

A solution of 180-glycyrrhetinic acid (2.5 g, 5.3 mmol), tert-butyl(3-aminopropyl)carbamate (1.1 g, 6.4 mmol) and HBTU (3.0 g, 8.0 mmol) inN,N-dimethylformamide (20 mL) was added diisopropylethylamine (2.75 mL,15.9 mmol). The solution was stirred overnight at room temperature. Uponcompletion, the solution was concentrated in vacuo to dryness. Theresidue was purified by column chromatography on silica gel 60(gradient: 2% to 5% MeOH/CH₂Cl₂) to afford the product as a colorlesssolid (2.1 g, 63%).

Step 2. Preparation of Compound 38

To a solution of 37 (2.1 g, 3.3 mmol) and triethylamine (3.5 mL, 10mmol) in dichloromethane (25 mL) was added acetic anhydride (850 μL, 5.3mmol) and DMAP (5 mg). The solution was stirred overnight at roomtemperature. Upon completion, the solution was concentrated to drynessand dissolved in ethyl acetate (100 mL), washed with water (100 mL),dried on magnesium sulfate, filtered and concentrated to dryness toafford a pale brown foam (1.9 g, 85%).

Step 3. Preparation of Compound 39

To a solution of 38 (1.5 g, 2.3 mmol) in anhydrous dioxane (25 mL) wasadded 2M Hydrogen chloride in dioxane (25 mL). The solution was stirredovernight at room temperature then concentrated in vacuo to dryness toafford a light brown solid (1.3 g, 96%).

Step 4. Preparation of Compounds 40, 41 and 42

Compounds 40, 41 and 42 were prepared according to the same procedureused to synthesize compounds 19, 20, and 1 respectfully.

Example 5. Synthesis of Conjugate 43

Step 1. Preparation of Methyl11-(2,6-bis(hydroxymethyl)-4-methylphenoxy)undecanoate

To a solution of 2,6-bis(hydroxymethyl)-p-cresol (2.7 g, 16.3 mmol),methyl 11-bromoundecanoate (5.0 g, 17.9 mmol) and potassium carbonate(4.5 g, 32.6 mmol) in acetone (100 mL) was refluxed for 16 hours. Uponcompletion the solution was concentrated in vacuo to dryness, suspendedin ethyl acetate (150 mL) and washed with water (2×100 mL) and brine(100 mL). The ethyl acetate layer was dried on magnesium sulfate,filtered and concentrated in vacuo to dryness. The residue was purifiedby column chromatography on silica gel 60 (gradient 100% Hex→50%EtOAc/Hex) to afford methyl11-(2,6-bis(hydroxymethyl)-4-methylphenoxy)undecanoate 44 as a colorlessoil (1.6 g, 27%).

Step 2. Preparation of Methyl11-(2-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)methyl)-6-(hydroxymethyl)-4-methylphenoxy)undecanoate45

To a solution of methyl11-(2,6-bis(hydroxymethyl)-4-methylphenoxy)undecanoate 44 (1.5 g, 4.1mmol) in anhydrous pyridine (20 mL) was added 4,4′-Dimethoxytritylchloride (1.4 g, 4.1 mmol). The solution was stirred overnight at roomtemperature. Upon completion the solution was concentrated in vacuo todryness and purified by column chromatography on silica gel 60 (0.5 to1% MeOH in CH₂Cl₂) to afford Methyl11-(2-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)methyl)-6-(hydroxymethyl)-4-methylphenoxy)undecanoate45 as a pale yellow solid (1.1 g, 40%).

Step 3. Preparation of Lithium11-(2-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)methyl)-6-(hydroxymethyl)-4-methylphenoxy)undecanoate46

To a solution of Methyl11-(2-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)methyl)-6-(hydroxymethyl)-4-methylphenoxy)undecanoate45 (1.1 g, 1.7 mmol) in anhydrous tetrahydrofuran (40 mL) and water (10mL) was added lithium hydroxide (44 mg, 1.8 mmol). The solution wasconcentrated in vacuo to remove all tetrahydrofuran. The remainingaqueous solution was flash frozen on liquid nitrogen then lyophilizedovernight to afford lithium11-(2-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)methyl)-6-(hydroxymethyl)-4-methylphenoxy)undecanoate46 as a pale pink solid (1.1 g, 94%).

Step 4. Preparation of Compound 47

A solution of 10 (1.33 g, 0.66 mmol), 46 (0.5 g, 0.73 mmol), HBTU (400mg, 1 mmol) in N,N-dimethylformamide (25 mL) was addeddiisopropylethylamine (0.35 mL, 2 mmol). The solution was stirredovernight (18 hours) at room temperature. Upon completion, the solventwas remove in vacuo and the residue was purified by columnchromatography on silica gel (gradient: 100% CH₂Cl₂-5%-10%-15% MeOH inCH₂Cl₂) to afford 47 as a colorless solid (710 mg, 41%).

Step 5. Preparation of Compound 48

To a solution of 47 (0.71 g, 0.3 mmol), triethylamine (0.4 mL, 3.0 mmol)and polystyrene-DMAP (3 mmol/g loading, 200 mg, 0.6 mmol) indichloromethane (15 mL) was added succinic anhydride (60 mg, 0.6 mmol).The solution was stirred overnight at room temperature and uponcompletion filtered and concentrated in vacuo to dryness. The residuewas purified by column chromatography on silica gel 60 (gradient 5% to20% MeOH in CH₂Cl₂) to afford the 48 as a pale yellow solid (570 mg,70%). ¹H NMR (DMSO-d₆, 400 MHz) δ 7.91 (m, 1H), 7.86-7.76 (m, 6H),7.45-7.40 (m, 2H), 7.36-7.14 (m, 10H), 7.10 (s, 1H), 6.91 (d, J=8.9 Hz,4H), 5.21 (d, J=3.3 Hz, 3H), 5.01 (s, 2H), 4.97 (dd, J=11.2, 3.4 Hz,3H), 4.56 (d, J=8.5 Hz, 3H), 4.06-3.98 (m, 11H), 3.93-3.84 (m, 3H),3.81-3.72 (m, 3H), 3.74 (s, 6H), 3.65-3.46 (m, 38H), 3.40-3.35 (m, 6H),3.20-3.16 (m, 6H), 2.56-2.44 (m, 4H), 2.33 (s, 3H), 2.15-2.08 (m, 2H),2.10 (s, 9H), 2.04-1.96 (m, 6H), 1.89 (s, 9H), 1.82-1.76 (m, 4H), 1.77(s, 9H), 1.54-1.34 (m, 4H), 1.28-1.10 (m, 12H),

Step 6. Preparation of Compound 49

To a solution of 48 (100 mg, 40 μmol), N-Hydroxysuccinimide (30 mg/mLsoln in acetonitrile, 50 μL, 13 μmol), N,N-Diisopropylcarbodiimide (40μL, 264 μmol) and pyridine (50 μL) in dichloromethane (2 mL) andacetonitrile (3 mL) was added 1000 Å lcaa CPG (prime synthesis, 920 mg).The solution was stirred overnight at room temperature on an orbitalshaker. TLC analysis of the reaction solution showed only partialconsumption of the activated N-Hydroxysuccinic ester so additional CPG(500 mg) was added. The solution was stirred again overnight. Uponcompletion, the CPG was filtered and washed with dichloromethane (25mL), acetonitrile (25 mL) and tetrahydrofuran (25 mL). The unreactedamine residues on the CPG were acetylated (capped) by adding a 1:1solution of acetic anhydride in acetonitrile (3 mL) and 10%N-methylimidazole/10% pyridine in tetrahydrofuran (3 mL). The suspensionwas left for 2 hours then filtered and rinsed with equal partstetrahydrofuran (25 mL), acetonitrile (25 mL) and dichloromethane (25mL). The loaded CPG 49 was dried under high vacuum overnight. The ligandloading efficiency was determined to be 22 μmole/g using a standard DMTloading assay (3% trichloroacetic acid in CH₂Cl₂, UV-VIS, A₅₀₄).

Step 7. Preparation of Conjugate 43

The resulting GalNAc loaded CPG solid support 49 was employed inautomated oligonucleotide synthesis using standard procedures.Nucleotide deprotection followed by removal from the solid support (withconcurrent galactosamine acetate deprotection) afforded aGalNAc-oligonucleotide conjugate 43.

Example 6. Synthesis of Conjugate 50

Step 1. Preparation of2-((2-((tert-butyldimethylsilyl)oxy)ethyl)amino)ethan-1-ol 51

A solution of ethanolamine (77 mL, 1.25 mol) and(2-bromoethoxy)-tert-butyl dimethylsilane (15 g, 62.7 mmol) in anhydrousacetonitrile (200 mL) was refluxed for 3 hours. Upon completion thereaction was cooled to room temperature, diluted with water (400 mL) andextracted with ethyl acetate (3×150 mL). The combined ethyl acetateextracts were dried on magnesium sulfate, filtered and concentrated invacuo to dryness. The residue was purified by filtration through a padof silica first with 50% ethyl acetate/hexanes then 50% MeOH/EtOAc toafford 51 as a pale yellow oil (14 g, 100%).

Step 2. Preparation of2-(bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)-N-(2-((tert-butyldimethylsilyl)oxy)ethyl)ethan-1-amine52

To a solution of2-((2-((tert-butyldimethylsilyl)oxy)ethyl)amino)ethan-1-ol 51 (14 g, 64mmol) and triethylamine (17.5 mL, 128 mmol) in anhydrous dichloromethane(250 mL) was added 4,4′-Dimethoxytrityl chloride (24 g, 70 mmol). Thesolution was stirred overnight at room temperature then concentrated invacuo to dryness. The residue was dissolved in ethyl acetate (300 mL)and washed with water (250 mL) and brine (250 mL). The ethyl acetate wasdried on magnesium sulfate, filtered and concentrated in vacuo todryness. Purification by column chromatography on silica gel 60 (1% to5% MeOH in CH₂Cl₂) afforded 52 as a pale yellow viscous oil (13 g, 39%).

Step 3. Preparation of Methyl10-((2-(bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)ethyl)(2-((tert-butyldimethylsilyl)oxy)ethyl)amino)-10-oxodecanoate53

A solution of2-(bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)-N-(2-((tert-butyldimethylsilyl)oxy)ethyl)ethan-1-amine52 (5.4 g, 10.3 mmol), monomethyl sebacate (2.2 g, 10.3 g), HBTU (4.9 g,12.9 mmol), DIPEA (5.3 mL, 30.9 mmol) in N,N-dimethylformamide (100 mL)was stirred for 3 hours at room temperature. Upon completion, thesolution was poured into water (400 mL) and extracted with ethyl acetate(1×500 mL). The ethyl acetate extract was washed with brine (2×250 mL),dried on magnesium sulfate, filtered and concentrated in vacuo todryness. Purification by column chromatography on silica gel 60 (10% to25% ethyl acetate in hexanes) afforded 53 as a viscous yellow oil (6.5g, 87%).

Step 4. Preparation of Methyl10-((2-(bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)ethyl)(2-hydroxyethyl)amino)-10-oxodecanoate54

To a solution of methyl10-((2-(bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)ethyl)(2-((tert-butyldimethylsilyl)oxy)ethyl)amino)-10-oxodecanoate53 (2.0 g, 2.8 mmol) and triethylamine (1 mL) in anhydroustetrahydrofuran (20 mL) was added TBAF (1M in THF, 3.4 mL, 3.3 mmol).The solution was stirred for 6 h, but only partial conversion observedby TLC (5% MeOH in CH₂Cl₂). Additional 1.7 mL TBAF added and thesolution was stirred overnight at room temperature. Upon completion, thesolution was concentrated in vacuo and purified by column chromatographyon silica gel 60 (10% to 50% EtOAc in hexanes then 100% EtOAc) to afford54 as a viscous colorless oil (0.5 g, 29%).

Step 5. Preparation of Lithium10-((2-(bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)ethyl)(2-hydroxyethyl)amino)-10-oxodecanoate55

To a solution of methyl10-((2-(bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)ethyl)(2-hydroxyethyl)amino)-10-oxodecanoate54 (0.5 g, 0.83 mmol) in THE (40 mL) was added water (10 mL) and lithiumhydroxide (24 mg, 1.0 mmol). The solution was stirred overnight at roomtemperature then concentrated in vacuo to remove the THF. The remainingaqueous solution was flash frozen on liquid nitrogen and lyophilized toafford 55 as a colorless solid (485 mg, 95%).

Step 6. Preparation of Compounds 56, 57, 58 and 50

Compounds 56, 57, 58 and 50 were prepared using the identical proceduresto those used to synthesize compounds 47, 48, 49 and 43 respectfully.

Example 7. Synthesis of Conjugate 59

Step 1. Preparation of Methyl (2R,5R)-5-hydroxypiperidine-2-carboxylate61

(2R,5R)-5-hydroxypiperidine-2-carboxylic acid 60 (3.5 g, 24.1 mmol) wasstirred in MeOH (50 mL). HCl (g) was bubbled through the solution for 2mins and the reaction stirred at reflux for 1.5 h. The reaction wasconcentrated in-vacuo to give methyl(2R,5R)-5-hydroxypiperidine-2-carboxylate 61 in quantitative yield whichwas used without further purification.

Step 2. Preparation of 1-(tert-butyl) 2-methyl(2R,5R)-5-hydroxypiperidine-1,2-dicarboxylate 62

Methyl (2R,5R)-5-hydroxypiperidine-2-carboxylate 61 (24.1 mmol) and TEA(7.2 mL, 53.02 mmol) were stirred in DCM (100 mL) at RT.Di-tert-butyl-di-carbonate (5.7 g, 26.5 mmol) was added in portions andthe reaction stirred for 2 h. The reaction was diluted with DCM (100 mL)and washed sequentially with 1 M HCl (2×75 mL), saturated NaHCO₃ (2×75mL), H₂O (2×75 mL) and saturated NaCl solution (2×75 mL). The organicswere separated, dried (Na₂SO₄) and concentrated in-vacuo to give1-(tert-butyl) 2-methyl (2R,5R)-5-hydroxypiperidine-1,2-dicarboxylate 62(5.53 g, 88%) which was used without further purification.

Step 3. Preparation of Tert-Butyl(2R,5R)-5-hydroxy-2-(hydroxymethyl)piperidine-1-carboxylate 63

(2R,5R)-1-(tert-Butoxycarbonyl)-5-hydroxypiperidine-2-carboxylic acid 62(5.53 g, 21.4 mmol) was stirred in THE at 0° C. LiBH₄ (3.0 M solution inTHF)(8.9 mL, 27.7 mmol) was added dropwise over 1 hr. The reaction wasallowed to warm to RT and stirring continued for 16 h. Reaction wasquenched with 1M NaOH, THE removed in-vacuo and the aqueous exhaustivelyextracted with EtOAc (10×100 mL). The combined organics were washed withH₂O (50 mL), saturated NaCl solution (2×50 mL), dried (Na₂SO₄) andconcentrated in-vacuo to give tert-butyl(2R,5R)-5-hydroxy-2-(hydroxymethyl)piperidine-1-carboxylate 63 (2.4 g,49.0%) which was used without further purification.

Step 4. Preparation of (3R,6R)-6-(hydroxymethyl)piperidin-3-ol 64

tert-Butyl (2R,5R)-5-hydroxy-2-(hydroxymethyl)piperidine-1-carboxylate63 (2.4 g, 10.4 mmol) was stirred in Et₂O at RT. HCl (g) was bubbledthrough for 45 secs and the reaction stirred at RT for 45 mins. Thereaction was concentrated in-vacuo and dried under hi-vac to afford(3R,6R)-6-(hydroxymethyl)piperidin-3-ol 64. The product was used withoutfurther purification.

Step 5. Preparation of2,2,2-trifluoro-1-((2R,5R)-5-hydroxy-2-(hydroxymethyl)piperidin-1-yl)ethan-1-one65

Crude (3R,6R)-6-(hydroxymethyl)piperidin-3-ol 64 from the previousreaction was stirred in MeCN (50 mL) with TEA (3.5 mL, 25.2 mmol) at RT.Ethyl trifluoroacetate (3 mL, 25.2 mmol) was added and the reactionstirred at RT for 16 hr, then concentrated in-vacuo to give2,2,2-trifluoro-1-((2R,5R)-5-hydroxy-2-(hydroxymethyl)piperidin-1-yl)ethan-1-one65. The product was used without further purification.

Step 6. Preparation of1-((2R,5R)-2-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)methyl)-5-hydroxypiperidin-1-yl)-2,2,2-trifluoroethan-1-one66

Crude2,2,2-trifluoro-1-((2R,5R)-5-hydroxy-2-(hydroxymethyl)piperidin-1-yl)ethan-1-one65 from the previous reaction was stirred in DCM with TEA (50 mL) at RT.4,4′-Dimethoxytrityl chloride (DMTrCl) (3.87 g, 11.44 mmol) was added inone portion and the reaction stirred at RT for 3 hours. The reaction wasdiluted with DCM (50 mL) and washed sequentially with saturated NaHCO₃(2×75 mL), H₂O (2×75 mL) and saturated NaCl solution (2×75 mL). Theorganics were separated, dried (Na₂SO₄), concentrated in-vacuo andpurified by column chromatography (100% hexanes-60% EtOAc/Hexanes) (0.1%TEA) to give1-((2R,5R)-2-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)methyl)-5-hydroxypiperidin-1-yl)-2,2,2-trifluoroethan-1-one66 (3.14 g, 57%)

Step 7. Preparation of(3R,6R)-6-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)methyl)-piperidin-3-ol67

1-((2R,5R)-2-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)methyl)-5-hydroxypiperidin-1-yl)-2,2,2-trifluoroethan-1-one66 (3.14 g, 6.0 mmol) was stirred in MeOH (50 mL) at RT. KOH (672 mg, 12mmol) was added and the reaction stirred at RT for 16 hours. AdditionalKOH (300 mg, 6 mmol) was added and stirring continued for an additional24 h. The reaction was concentrated in-vacuo, taken up in DCM (150 mL),washed with H₂O (4×50 mL), dried (Na₂SO₄) and concentrated in-vacuo togive(3R,6R)-6-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)methyl)piperidin-3-ol 67(2.34 g, 90%) which was used without further purification.

Step 8. Preparation of Methyl12-((2R,5R)-2-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)-methoxy)methyl)-5-hydroxypiperidin-1-yl)-12-oxododecanoate68

(3R,6R)-6-((Bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)methyl)piperidin-3-ol 67(2.34 g, 5.34 mmol) was stirred in DCM (75 mL) at RT. Triethylamine (2.2mL, 16.2 mmol), HATU (3.5 g, 9.2 mmol) and 12-methoxy-12-oxododecanoicacid (1.32 g, 5.4 mmol) were added and the reaction stirred at RT for 3h. The resultant solid precipitate was removed by filtration, thefiltrate concentrated in-vacuo and the residue purified by columnchromatography (2.5% MeOH/DCM, 0.1% TEA) to give methyl12-((2R,5R)-2-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)methyl)-5-hydroxypiperidin-1-yl)-12-oxododecanoate68 in quantitative yield.

Step 9. Preparation of Lithium12-((2R,5R)-2-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)-methyl)-5-hydroxypiperidin-1-yl)-12-oxododecanoate69

Methyl12-((2R,5R)-2-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)methyl)-5-hydroxypiperidin-1-yl)-12-oxododecanoate68 (5.4 mmol) and LiOH (140 mg, 5.94 mmol) were stirred in THF:H₂O (1:1,100 mL) at RT for 48 h. The TH was removed in-vacuo, the aqueous frozenand lyophilized to give lithium12-((2R,5R)-2-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)methyl)-5-hydroxypiperidin-1-yl)-12-oxododecanoate69 (3.2 g, 91%). Which was used in subsequent reactions withoutadditional purification.

Step 10. Preparation of Compounds 70, 71, 72, and 59

Compounds 70, 71, 72 and 59 were prepared using the identical proceduresto those used to synthesize compounds 47, 48, 49 and 43 respectfully.

Example 8. Synthesis of Conjugate 142

Step 1. Preparation of 3,4,5-Triacetoxybenzoic Acid 73

To a solution of Gallic acid (20 g) in pyridine (50 mL) and aceticanhydride (50 mL). The solution was stirred overnight at roomtemperature then poured into ice water (1 L). The solution was madeacidic with concentrated hydrochloric acid where upon a colorless solidprecipitated. The solid was collected via filtration and washed withwater (5×100 mL). The wet solid was frozen on liquid nitrogen and freezedried to afford 3,4,5-triacetoxybenzoic acid (26 g, 75%).

Step 2. Preparation of5-((2-((2-Oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)amino)ethyl)carbamoyl)benzene-1,2,3-triylTriacetate 74

To a solution of 3,4,5-triacetoxybenzoic acid (10 g, 33.8 mmol),N-carbobenzoxy-1,2-diaminoethane hydrochloride (5.3 g, 33.8 mmol) andHBTU (13.5 g, 35.5 mmol) in DMF (200 mL) was added DIPEA (17.5 mL, 101mmol). The solution was stirred for 16 hours then diluted with ethylacetate (250 mL), washed with brine (3×200 mL), dried on magnesiumsulfate, filtered and concentrated in vacuo to dryness. The crudeproduct was purified by column chromatography on silica gel (Gradient 1%to 5% MeOH in DCM) to afford5-((2-((2-Oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)amino)ethyl)carbamoyl)benzene-1,2,3-triyltriacetate as an off white solid (5.5 g).

Step 3. Preparation of3,4,5-Trihydroxy-N-(2-((2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)amino)ethyl)benzamide75

A solution of5-((2-((2-Oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)amino)ethyl)carbamoyl)benzene-1,2,3-triyltriacetate (5 g, 1.1 mmol) in 1:1 MeOH/CH₂Cl₂ (100 mL) was stirred for 3days at room temperature. Upon completion the solvent was removed toafford3,4,5-Trihydroxy-N-(2-((2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)amino)ethyl)benzamideas a colorless solid (4 g, quantitative).

Step 4. Preparation of Trimethyl2,2′,2″-((5-((2-((2-oxo-2-phenyl-1)2-ethyl)amino)ethyl)carbamoyl)benzene-1,2,3-triyl)tris(oxy))triacetate76

A solution of3,4,5-Trihydroxy-N-(2-((2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)amino)ethyl)benzamide(4 g, 11.6 mmol), methyl bromoacetate (7.7 g, 46.4 mmol) and potassiumcarbonate (9.6 g, 69.4 mmol) in DMF (100 mL) was stirred overnight at60° C. Upon completion the solution was cooled to room temperature,diluted with ethyl acetate (200 mL), washed with water (200 mL), brine(3×100 mL), dried on magnesium sulfate, filtered and concentrated invacuo to dryness. The crude product was purified by columnchromatography on silica gel (Gradient 2% to 10% MeOH in DCM) to affordtrimethyl2,2′,2″-((5-((2-((2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)amino)ethyl)carbamoyl)benzene-1,2,3-triyl)tris(oxy))-triacetateas a beige solid (5 g, 79%)

Step 5. Preparation of2,2′,2″-((5-((2-((2-Oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)amino)ethyl)-carbamoyl)benzene-1,2,3-triyl)tris(oxy))triaceticAcid 77

A solution of trimethyl2,2′,2″-((5-((2-((2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)amino)ethyl)-carbamoyl)benzene-1,2,3-triyl)tris(oxy))triacetate(5 g, 9.2 mmol) and 1M NaOH (30 mL) in methanol (100 mL) was stirred for2 hours at room temperature. Upon completion the reaction wasconcentrated to remove the methanol and diluted with water (75 mL). Themixture was cooled to 0° C., acidified with 2M HCl and extracted withethyl acetate (5×150 mL). The combined ethyl acetate extracts were driedon magnesium sulfate, filtered and concentrated in vacuo to dryness toafford2,2′,2″-((5-((2-((2-Oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)amino)ethyl)carbamoyl)benzene-1,2,3-triyl)tris(oxy))triaceticacid as a colorless solid (2.3 g, 50%).

Step 6. Preparation of Compound 78

Compound 78 was prepared from compounds 9 (2.75 g, 4.3 mmol) and 77 (0.5g, 0.96 mmol) using an identical procedure to that used for compound 13.Yield: 600 mg.

Step 7. Preparation of Compound 79

Compound 79 was prepared from compounds 78 (0.6 g) using an identicalprocedure to that used for compound 14. Yield: 500 mg.

Step 8. Preparation of Compound 140

Compound 140 was prepared from compound 79 (500 mg, 0.25 mmol) andcompound 18 (175 mg, 0.25 mmol) using an identical procedure to thatused for compound 19. Yield: 250 mg, 44%.

Step 9. Preparation of Compound 141

Compound 141 was prepared from compound 140 (250 mg, 0.11 mmol) using anidentical procedure to that used for compound 20. Yield: 200 mg.

Step 10. Preparation of Conjugate 142

Conjugate 142 was prepared from compound 141 (200 mg) and 1000 A lcaaCPG (1.8 g) using an identical procedure to that used for compound 1.Yield: 1.9 g, 22 μmol/g CPG loading. The resulting GalNAc loaded CPGsolid support was employed in automated oligonucleotide synthesis usingstandard procedures. Nucleotide deprotection followed by removal fromthe solid support (with concurrent galactosamine acetate deprotection)afforded the GalNAc-oligonucleotide conjugate 142.

Example 9. Synthesis of Conjugate 145

Step 1. Preparation of Racemic (cis)5-Benzyl-3a,6a-dimethyltetrahydro-1H-furo[3,4-c]pyrrole-1,3(3aH)-dione123

To a cooled solution (0° C.) of 3,4-dimethylfuran-2,5-dione (3 g, 24mmol) and N-benzyl-1-methoxy-N-((trimethylsilyl)methyl)methanamine (7 g,29.8 mmol) in dichloromethane (75 mL) was slowly added trifluoroaceticacid (75 μL). Stir overnight allowing the solution to slowly warm toroom temperature as the ice bath melted. The reaction mixture wasconcentrated to dryness, dissolved in ethyl acetate (100 mL), washedwith saturated sodium bicarbonate (2×100 mL), dried on magnesiumsulfate, filtered and concentrated to dryness. Purification by columnchromatography on silica gel (gradient: 20% ethyl acetate in hexanes to100% ethyl acetate) afforded racemic (cis)5-Benzyl-3a,6a-dimethyltetrahydro-1H-furo[3,4-c]pyrrole-1,3(3aH)-dioneas a yellow oil (3.5 g, 56%).

Step 2. Preparation of Racemic (cis)1-Benzyl-3,4-dimethylpyrrolidine-3,4-diyl)dimethanol 124

To a cooled (0° C.) solution of(3aR,6aS)-5-Benzyl-3a,6a-dimethyltetrahydro-1H-furo[3,4-c]pyrrole-1,3(3aH)-dione(3.5 g, 13.4 mmol) in anhydrous diethyl ether (50 mL) was added slowlylithium aluminum hydride pellets (1.5 g, 40 mmol) over three portions.The solution was stirred overnight warming to room temperature as theice water bath melted. Upon completion, the reaction was cooled to 0° C.and very slowly quenched with 1.5 mL of 5M NaOH followed by 1.5 mL ofwater. Stir for 30 minutes then add magnesium sulfate and filter. Thefiltrate was concentrated to afford racemic (cis)1-Benzyl-3,4-dimethylpyrrolidine-3,4-diyl)dimethanol as a colorless oil(2.7 g).

Step 3. Preparation of Racemic (cis)3,4-Dimethylpyrrolidine-3,4-diyl)dimethanol 125

To a solution of((3R,4S)-1-Benzyl-3,4-dimethylpyrrolidine-3,4-diyl)dimethanol (10 g, 40mmol) in methanol (10 mL) was added 10% palladium on activated charcoalwet (1 g). The solution was stirred vigorously under a hydrogenatmosphere for 16 hours. Upon completion the solution was filteredthrough Celite, and concentrated to dryness to afford racemic (cis)3,4-Dimethylpyrrolidine-3,4-diyl)dimethanol as a colorless solid (5.5 g,86%).

Step 4. Preparation of Racemic (cis) Methyl10-(3,4-bis(hydroxymethyl)-3,4-dimethylpyrrolidin-1-yl)-10-oxodecanoate126

Compound 126 was prepared from compound 125 (1.3 g, 8.2 mmol) andmonomethyl sebacate (1.8 g, 8.2 mmol) using an identical procedure tothat used for compound 17. Yield: 1.8 g, 61%.

Step 5. Preparation of Racemic (cis) Methyl10-(3-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl-)(phenyl)methoxy)-methyl)-4-(hydroxymethyl)-3,4-dimethylpyrrolidin-1-yl)-10-oxodecanoate127

Compound 127 was prepared from compound 126 (1.8 g, 5.0 mmol) and4,4′-Dimethoxytrityl chloride (1.7 g, 5.0 mmol) using an identicalprocedure to that used for compound 18. Yield: 1.4 g, 42%.

Step 6. Preparation of Racemic (cis) Lithium10-(3-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)-(phenyl)methoxy)-methyl)-4-(hydroxymethyl)-3,4-dimethylpyrrolidin-1-yl)-10-oxodecanoate128

To a solution of compound 127 (3.0 g, 4.6 mmol) in THE (50 mL) and water(50 mL) was added lithium hydroxide (121 mg, 5.0 mmol). The solution wasstirred for 4 hours at room temperature then concentrated to remove theTHF. The remaining aqueous solution was freeze dried overnight to afforda pale pink solid (2.9 g, quantitative).

Step 7. Preparation of Compound 143

Compound 143 was prepared from compound 128 (270 mg, 0.42 mmol) andcompound 14 (800 mg, 0.42 mmol) using an identical procedure to thatused for compound 19. Yield: 900 mg, 87%.

Step 8. Preparation of Compound 144

Compound 144 was prepared from compound 143 (500 mg, 0.2 mmol) using anidentical procedure to that used for compound 20. Yield: 200 mg.

Step 9. Preparation of Conjugate 145

Conjugate 145 was prepared from compound 144 (200 mg) and 1000 A lcaaCPG (1.8 g) using an identical procedure to that used for compound 1.Yield: 1.9 g, 20 μmol/g CPG loading. The resulting GalNAc loaded CPGsolid support was employed in automated oligonucleotide synthesis usingstandard procedures. Nucleotide deprotection followed by removal fromthe solid support (with concurrent galactosamine acetate deprotection)afforded the GalNAc-oligonucleotide conjugate 145.

Example 10. Synthesis of Conjugate 150

Step 1. Preparation of 146-1

To a solution of mono methyl ester of dodecanedioic acid (12.2 g, 50.0mmol) in dichloromethane (300 mL) was added N-hydroxysuccinimide (6.10g, 53.0 mmol) and 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)carbodiimidehydrochloride (EDC) (10.52 g, 55.0 mmol). The cloudy mixture was stirredovernight at room temperature and the reaction became a clear solution.TLC indicated the reaction was completed. The organics were washed withsaturated NH₄Cl (300 mL) and brine (100 mL). The organic layer wasseparated, dried over MgSO₄ and concentrated to dryness to pure1-(2,5-dioxopyrrolidin-1-yl) 12-methyl dodecanedioate 146-1 as a whitesolid (16.7 g, 97.8%).

Step 2. Preparation of Cyclopent-3-en-1-ylmethanol 146-2

To a suspension of lithium aluminum hydride (15.2 g, 0.40 mol) inanhydrous ether (1 L) at 0° C. under nitrogen, was added the solution ofmethyl cyclopent-3-enecarboxylate (50 g, 0.40 mol) in ether (300 mL)dropwise over 5 hrs. The suspension was stirred at room temperatureovernight. TLC indicated the completion of the reaction. The reactionwas re-cooled to 0° C. Saturated solution of Na₂SO₄ (32 mL) was addeddropwise to quench the reaction. After the addition was complete, themixture was stirred for another 3 hrs and was filtered through a pad ofcelite. Evaporation of solvent afforded cyclopent-3-enylmethanol 146-2(37.3 g, 95%) as a colorless liquid.

Step 3. Preparation of (6-oxabicyclo[3.1.0]hexan-3-yl)methanol 146-3

To a solution of cyclopent-3-enylmethanol 146-2 (4.0 g, 41 mmol) indichloromethane (150 mL) at 0° C. was added 3-chloroperbenzoic acid (10g, 45 mmol, 77% purity) by portion. The reaction was stirred overnight.Dichloromethane (150 mL) was added. The organics was washed with sodiumthiosulfate (12 g in 10 mL water), followed by saturated NaHCO₃ (40 mL).This was repeated till all the remaining 3-chloroperbenzoic acid waswashed away. The organic was dried over MgSO₄. Evaporation of solventgave a mixture of cis- and trans-6-oxabicyclo[3.1.0]hexan-3-ylmethanol146-3 (2.6 g, 57%) as a yellow oil. GC-MS: m/z 114 (5) (M+), 95 (15), 88(100), 81 (15).

Step 4. Preparation of 2-amino-4-(hydroxymethyl)cyclopentan-1-ol 146-4

To a solution of 6-oxabicyclo[3.1.0]hexan-3-ylmethanol 146-3 (2.0 g,17.6 mmol) in methanol (20 mL) at 0° C. was purged ammonia gas for 10min. The reaction was stirred at room temperature overnight. TLCindicated the incompletion of the reaction. Methanol was removed andNH₃.H₂O (50 mL) was added and this was stirred at room temperature overa week. TLC confirmed the completion of the reaction. Water was removedby azeotropically with ethanol to afford2-amino-4-(hydroxymethyl)cyclopentanol 146-4 (2.1 g, 91%) as a yellowoil.

Step 5. Preparation of Methyl12-(2-hydroxy-4-(hydroxymethyl)cyclopentylamino)-12-oxododecanoate 146-5

Compound 146-5 was prepared from 2-amino-4-(hydroxymethyl)cyclopentanol146-4 and 1-(2,5-dioxopyrrolidin-1-yl) 12-methyl dodecanedioate 146-1,using the same procedure as described in the synthesis of12-(2-(tert-butoxycarbonylamino)ethylamino)-12-oxododecanoate (3-2).Methyl12-(2-hydroxy-4-(hydroxymethyl)cyclopentylamino)-12-oxododecanoate 146-5was obtained in 87.4% yield as an off-white solid.

Step 6. Preparation of Compound 147

Compound 147 was prepared quantitatively from compound 146 (1.4 g, 2.33mmol) using an identical procedure to that used for compound 18.

Step 7. Preparation of Compound 148

Compound 148 was prepared from compound 147 (150 mg, 0.23 mmol) andcompound 14 (431 mg, 0.23 mmol) using an identical procedure to thatused for compound 19. Yield: 460 mg, 84%.

Step 8. Preparation of Compound 149

Compound 149 was prepared from compound 148 (460 mg, 0.19 mmol) using anidentical procedure to that used for compound 20. Yield: 436 mg, 91%.

Step 9. Preparation of Conjugate 150

Compound 150 was prepared from compound 149 (436 mg) and 1000 A lcaa CPG(2.62 g) using an identical procedure to that used for compound 1.Yield: 2.7 g, 21.3 μmol/g CPG loading. The resulting GalNAc loaded CPGsolid support was employed in automated oligonucleotide synthesis usingstandard procedures. Nucleotide deprotection followed by removal fromthe solid support (with concurrent galactosamine acetate deprotection)afforded the GalNAc-oligonucleotide conjugate 150.

Example 11. Synthesis of Conjugates 153, 158, 163, 168 and 173

Step 1. Preparation of 1-(tert-butyl) 2-methyl(2S,4R)-4-hydroxypyrrolidine-1,2-dicarboxylate (133)

Methyl (2S,4R)-4-hydroxypyrrolidine-2-carboxylate (25.9 g, 46 mmol), BOCanhydride (65.9 g, 302.5 mmol) and TEA (42 ml, 302.5 mmol) were stirredin DCM at RT for 16 h. The organics were washed sequentially with 1M HCl(×2), saturated NaHCO₃ (×2), H₂O and brine, dried and concentratedin-vacuo to give 1-(tert-butyl) 2-methyl(2S,4R)-4-hydroxypyrrolidine-1,2-dicarboxylate (133) (58.1 g, 85%).

Step 2. Preparation of 1-(tert-butyl) 2-methyl(4R)-4-hydroxy-2-methylpyrrolidine-1,2-dicarboxylate (134)

1-(tert-butyl) 2-methyl (2S,4R)-4-hydroxypyrrolidine-1,2-dicarboxylate(133) (5 g, 20.4 mmol) and MeI (12 g, 84.5 mmol) were stirred inanhydrous THF at −40° C. LDA (2.0 M solution in THF) (37.5 mL, 75 mmol)was added dropwise. The reaction was allowed to warm to RT and stirredfor 4 h then quenched with saturated NH₄Cl. The reaction was extractedwith EtOAc, washed with H₂O and brine, dried (Na₂SO₄) and concentratedin-vacuo. The residue was purified by column chromatography 50:50EtOAc//hexanes to give 1-(tert-butyl) 2-methyl(4R)-4-hydroxy-2-methylpyrrolidine-1,2-dicarboxylate (134) as a racemicmixture (3.6 g, 68%)

Step 3. Preparation of Tert-Butyl(2S,4R)-4-hydroxy-2-(hydroxymethyl)-2-methylpyrrolidine-1-carboxylate(135a)

1-(Tert-butyl) 2-methyl(4R)-4-hydroxy-2-methylpyrrolidine-1,2-dicarboxylate (134) (19 g, 73.5mmol) was stirred in anhydrous THE under N₂. LiBH₄ solution (48 ml, 96mmol) was added dropwise and the reaction stirred at RT for 48 h. Thereaction was quenched with 1M NaOH, the THF removed in-vacuo and theresidual extracted with EtOAc (4×100 ml). The organics were washed withH₂O and brine, dried (Na₂SO₄) and concentrated in-vacuo. The residue waspurified by column chromatography (5% MeOH/DCM) to give tert-butyl(2S,4R)-4-hydroxy-2-(hydroxymethyl)-2-methylpyrrolidine-1-carboxylate(135a) as the major product (8 g, 47%). Structure assigned according toliterature references.

Step 4. Preparation of (3R,5S)-5-(hydroxymethyl)-5-methylpyrrolidin-3-olhydrochloride (136)

tert-Butyl(2S,4R)-4-hydroxy-2-(hydroxymethyl)-2-methylpyrrolidine-1-carboxylate(135a) (8 g, 34.6 mmol) was stirred in EtOAc at RT and gaseous HClapplied for approximately two minutes. The reaction was stirred for onehour then concentrated in-vacuo and dried under high vacuum to give(3R,5S)-5-(hydroxymethyl)-5-methylpyrrolidin-3-ol hydrochloride (136) inquantitative fashion.

Step 5. Preparation of Methyl12-((2S,4R)-4-hydroxy-2-(hydroxymethyl)-2-methylpyrrolidin-1-yl)-12-oxododecanoate(137)

(3R,5S)-5-(Hydroxymethyl)-5-methylpyrrolidin-3-ol hydrochloride (136)(7.9 g, 47.4 mmol), 12-methoxy-12-oxododecanoic acid (11.5 g, 47.4mmol), HBTU (36 g, 76 mmol) and TEA 20 mL, 142.2 mmol) were stirred inDCM at RT for 16 h. The precipitate was removed by filtration and theorganics washed with 1M HCl (×2), saturated NaHCO₃ (×2), H₂O and brine.After drying the organics were concentrated in-vacuo and purified bycolumn chromatography (5% MeOH/DCM) to give methyl12-((2S,4R)-4-hydroxy-2-(hydroxymethyl)-2-methylpyrrolidin-1-yl)-12-oxododecanoate(137) (3.1 g, 18.3%).

Step 6. Preparation of Methyl12-((2S,4R)-2-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)-methyl)-4-hydroxy-2-methylpyrrolidin-1-yl)-12-oxododecanoate(138)

Methyl12-((2S,4R)-4-hydroxy-2-(hydroxymethyl)-2-methylpyrrolidin-1-yl)-12-oxododecanoate(137) (3.1 g, 9.0 mmol), DMTr-Cl (2.8 g, 8.2 mmol) and TEA (1.1 ml, 8.2mmol) were stirred in DC<at RT for 16 h. The reaction was concentratedin-vacuo and the residue purified by column chromatography (5% MeOH/DCM,0.1% TEA) to give methyl12-((2S,4R)-2-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)methyl)-4-hydroxy-2-methylpyrrolidin-1-yl)-12-oxododecanoate(138) (2.7 g, 45.5 mmol).

Step 7. Preparation of Compound 154-1

To a solution of N-(2-hydroxyethyl)phthalimide (4.80 g, 25.0 mmol) and4,4′-dimethoxytrityl chloride (8.8 g, 26.0 mmol) in dichloromethane (200mL) at 0° C. under nitrogen, was added triethylamine (10.4 mL, 74.6mmol) dropwise. The reaction mixture was stirred at room temperature for3 hrs. TLC indicated the completion of the reaction. The organic layerwas washed with brine (100 mL), dried over MgSO₄, and concentrated todryness. This was used directly for the next reaction withoutpurification.

Step 8. Preparation of Compound 154-2

2-(2-(Bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)ethyl)isoindoline-1,3-dione(154-1) obtained above and hydrazine monohydrate (3.6 mL, 74 mmol) inethanol (100 mL) was stirred overnight at room temperature. TLCindicated the completion of the reaction. The precipitate was filteredout. The filtrate was evaporated. The residue was taken up by ethylacetate (100 mL). The organic solution was washed with 10% NaOH, waterand brine, and dried over MgSO₄. Evaporation of solvent afforded2-(bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)ethanamine (154-2) as a yellowliquid (8.11 g, 89.3% yield over two steps). This was used for the nextreaction without further purification.

Step 9. Preparation of Compound 154-3

To a solution of L-threonine (1.19 g, 10.0 mmol) and NaHCO₃ (2.3 g, 27mmol) in water (20 mL) and dioxane (10 mL), was added1-(2,5-dioxopyrrolidin-1-yl) 12-methyl dodecanedioate 146-1 (3.1 g, 9.1mmol) in dioxane (10 mL) dropwise. The reaction mixture was stirred atroom temperature overnight. 4N HCl (10 mL) was added. The precipitatewas collected by filtration and washed with water (3×10 mL). The solidwas dried over P₂O₅ in a desiccator to afford(2S,3R)-3-hydroxy-2-(12-methoxy-12-oxododecanamido)butanoic acid 154-3as an off-white solid (2.84 g, 82.2%). LC-MS (ESI): m/z: 346 (100),(M+H+).

Step 10. Preparation of Compound 154

(2S,3R)-3-hydroxy-2-(12-methoxy-12-oxododecanamido)butanoic acid 154-3(2.47 g, 7.15 mmol), 2-(bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)ethanamine154-2 (2.60 g, 7.15 mmol), EDC (1.64 g, 8.58 mmol),1-hydroxybenzotriazole (HOBt) (1.16 g, 8.58 mmol) and TEA (2.4 mL, 17.2mmol) were stirred in dichloromethane (72 mL) at room temperature for 2hrs. Water (30 mL) was added. The organic layer was separated and washedwith brine (2×30 mL). Evaporation of solvent followed by columnchromatography (30% ethyl acetate/hexanes −50% ethyl acetate/hexanes)afforded methyl12-((2S,3R)-1-(2-(bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)ethylamino)-3-hydroxy-1-oxobutan-2-ylamino)-12-oxododecanoate154 as a waxy yellow semi-solid (2.60 g, 52.6%). ¹HNMR (400 MHz,acetone-d6, ppm): δ 7.51 (t, J=5.5 Hz, 1H), 7.45-7.49 (m, 2H), 7.28-7.36(m, 6H), 7.21 (tt, J=7.2, 1.2 Hz, 1H), 7.08 (d, J=8.1 Hz, 1H), 6.88 (dt,J=8.9, 2.5 Hz, 4H), 4.39 (dd, J=8.2, 3.0 Hz, 1H), 4.20-4.27 (m, 1H),3.78 (s, 6H), 3.60 (s, 1H), 3.35-3.52 (m, 2H), 3.07-3.16 (m, 2H),2.23-2.37 (m, 4H), 1.53-1.65 (m, 4H), 1.23-1.36 (m, 12H), 1.10 (d, J=6.4Hz, 3H).

Step 11. Preparation of Compound 164-1

To a suspension of potassium t-butoxide (14.6 g, 130 mol) in THE (120mL)/ether (360 mL) was added methyltriphenylphosphonium bromide (46.6 g,130 mmol). The mixture was refluxed for 2 hrs and then cooled to 0° C.tert-butyl 2-formylpyrrolidine-1-carboxylate (13.0 g, 65.2 mmol) inether (50 mL) was added dropwise. The reaction mixture was stirred at 0°C. and then quenched by the addition of water (250 mL). The organiclayer was separated and the aqueous was extracted with ether (250 mL).The combined extract was dried over MgSO₄. Evaporation of solvent,followed by column chromatography purification (5% ethyl acetae/hexanes)gave tert-butyl 3-vinylpyrrolidine-1-carboxylate 164-1 (11.5 g, 89.4%)as a colorless liquid. GC-MS: m/z: 197 (2) (M⁺), 141 (40), 124 (30), 57(100).

Step 12. Preparation of Compound 164-2

To a mixture of t-BuOH (140 mL) and water (70 mL), was charged AD-mix-β(47.4 g) and methanesulfonamide (2.89 g, 30.4 mmol). The mixture wasstirred at room temperature for 30 min and was then cooled to 0° C.tert-Butyl 3-vinylpyrrolidine-1-carboxylate 164-1 (6.00 g, 30.4 mmol)was added. The reaction was stirred at room temperature overnight. Thereaction mixture was cooled to 0° C. Sodium thiosulfate pentahydrate (96g, 387 mmol) was added and the temperature was allowed to warm to roomtemperature. Water (700 mL) was added and the mixture was extracted withethyl acetate (500 mL). The extract was washed with water (2×50 mL) andbrine (50 mL), and dried over MgSO₄. Evaporation of solvent, followed bycolumn chromatography (2% methanol/dichloromethane-7%methanol/dichloromethane) gave tert-butyl3-(1,2-dihydroxyethyl)pyrrolidine-1-carboxylate 164-2 (5.4 g, 77%) as alight brown oil.

Step 13. Preparation of Compound 164-3

To a solution of tert-butyl3-(1,2-dihydroxyethyl)pyrrolidine-1-carboxylate 164-2 (3.1 g, 13.4 mmol)in ethanol (10 mL) was added 3N HCl (30 mL, 90 mmol). The reactionmixture was stirred at room temperature overnight. TLC indicated thecompletion of the reaction. Ethanol was evaporated. Toluene was addedand evaporated. This was repeated three times to give1-(pyrrolidin-3-yl)ethane-1,2-diol hydrochloride 164-3 (2.0 g, 89%) as abrown oil. LC-MS (ESI): m/z: 132 (100), (M+H⁺, free amine).

Step 14 Preparation of Compound 164-4

To a solution of 1-(pyrrolidin-3-yl)ethane-1,2-diol hydrochloride 164-2(2.0 g, 12 mmol) in water (30 mL) was added NaHCO₃ (3.7 g, 44 mmol) byportion. Dioxane (20 mL) was then added. To the above solution was added1-(2,5-dioxopyrrolidin-1-yl) 12-methyl dodecanedioate 146-1 (3.7 g, 11mmol) in dioxane (30 mL). The reaction mixture was stirred overnight.This was extracted with ethyl acetate (3×100 mL). The combined extractwas washed with 0.5N HCl (50 mL) and brine (50 mL), and dried overMgSO₄.

Step 15. Preparation of Compound 164

This substance was prepared from methyl12-(3-(1,2-dihydroxyethyl)pyrrolidin-1-yl)-12-oxododecanoate 164-4 and4,4-dimethoxytrityl chloride (1 eq) using the same procedure asdescribed in the synthesis of2-(2-(bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)ethyl)isoindoline-1,3-dione138. The product was purified by column chromatography (1.5%methanol/dichloromethane). Methyl12-(3-(2-(bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)-1-hydroxyethyl)pyrrolidin-1-yl)-12-oxododecanoate164 was obtained in 51% yield as a yellow oil. ¹HNMR (400 MHz,acetone-d6, ppm): δ 7.49-7.54 (m, 2H), 7.35-7.40 (m, 4H), 7.28-7.34 (m,2H), 7.19-7.25 (m, 1H), 6.86-6.91 (m, 4H), 4.11-4.20 (m, 1H), 3.79 (s,6H), 3.68-3.77 (m, 1H), 3.60 (s, 3H), 3.29-3.59 (m, 3H), 3.06-3.20 (m,3H), 2.33-2.55 (m, 1H), 2.29 (t, J=7.4 Hz, 2H), 2.19 (t, J=7.6 Hz, 2H),1.65-2.0 (m, 2H), 1.51-1.62 (m, 4H), 1.26-1.35 (m, 12H).

Step 16. Preparation of Compound 170-1

To a solution of tert-butyl 2-aminoethylcarbamate (2.88 g, 18.0 mmol)and triethylamine (2.98 g, 29.4 mmol) in dichloromethane (100 mL), wasadded 1-(2,5-dioxopyrrolidin-1-yl) 12-methyl dodecanedioate (146-1)(5.09 g, 14.9 mmol) in dichloromethane (50 mL) dropwise at roomtemperature. The reaction mixture was stirred overnight and TLCindicated the completion of the reaction. 100 mL brine was added and theorganic layer was separated. The organic layer was washed with 0.5N HCl(150 mL), brine (2×100 mL) and dried over MgSO₄. Evaporation of solventgave pure methyl12-(2-(tert-butoxycarbonylamino)ethylamino)-12-oxododecanoate 170-1(5.85 g 100%) as a white solid.

Step 17. Preparation of Compound 170-2

To a solution of12-(2-(tert-butoxycarbonylamino)ethylamino)-12-oxododecanoate 170-1(5.55 g, 14.4 mmol) in methanol (100 mL) at 0° C., was added thionylchloride (3.3 mL, 45.5 mmol) dropwise. The reaction was then stirred atroom temperature overnight. TLC indicated the completion of thereaction. The solvent and volatile organics were evaporated. The residuewas then co-evaporated with heptanes twice to give methyl12-(2-aminoethylamino)-12-oxododecanoate hydrochloride 170-2quantitatively as a white solid. LC-MS (ESI): m/z: 287 (100), (M+H⁺,free amine).

Step 18. Preparation of Compound 170-3

(−)-Methyl (S)-2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolane-4-carboxylate (5.01 g, 31.2mmol) and LiOH H₂O (2.55 g, 60.8 mmol) in THF (50 mL) and water (50 mL)was stirred overnight. TLC indicated the completion of the reaction. THEwas evaporated and the aqueous was acidified with 1N HCl to pH=1. Thiswas extracted with ethyl acetate (5×50 mL). The combined extract wasdried over MgSO₄. Evaporation of solvent gave(S)-2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolane-4-carboxylic acid 170-3 (2.93 g, 64.3%)as a light yellow liquid.

Step 19. Preparation of Compound 170-4

Compound 170-4 was synthesized from(S)-2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolane-4-carboxylic acid 170-3 andN-hydroxysuccinimide in 86% yield, using the same procedure as describedin the synthesis of 1-(2,5-dioxopyrrolidin-1-yl) 12-methyldodecanedioate 146-1. (S)-2,5-Dioxopyrrolidin-1-yl2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolane-4-carboxylate 170-4 was obtained in 86% yieldas a white solid.

Step 20. Preparation of Compound 170-5

To a suspension of methyl 12-(2-aminoethylamino)-12-oxododecanoatehydrochloride 170-2 (14.4 mmol) and (S)-2,5-dioxopyrrolidin-1-yl2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolane-4-carboxylate 170-4 (3.80 g, 15.6 mmol) indichloromethane (100 mL) was added triethylamine (6 mL, 43.0 mmol) indichloromethane (25 mL) over 4 hrs at 0° C. The reaction mixture wasthen stirred at room temperature overnight. LC-MS indicated that thestarting material 170-2 was completely converted. The organic layer waswashed with brine (50 mL), 1N HCl (50 mL), brine (50 mL), dried overMgSO₄ and concentrated to dryness to afford (S)-methyl12-(2-(2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolane-4-carboxamido)ethylamino)-12-oxododecanoate170-5 (5.93 g, 99.3%) as a white solid.

Step 21. Preparation of Compound 170-6

To a solution of (S)-methyl12-(2-(2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolane-4-carboxamido)ethylamino)-12-oxododecanoate170-5 (5.93 g, 14.3 mmol) was added one drop of concentrated sulfuricacid. This was refluxed for 6 hrs and then cooled to room temperature.The solid was collected through filtration and washed twice with coldmethanol. The solid was dried in the air (3.32 g). The second crop (0.42g) was obtained from the mother liquid to give (S)-methyl12-(2-(2,3-dihydroxypropanamido)ethylamino)-12-oxododecanoate 170-6(3.74 g in total, 69.4%) as a white crystal. LC-MS (ESI): m/z: 375(100), (M+H+). ¹HNMR (400 MHz, DMSO-d6, ppm): δ 7.79 (br, 2H), 5.49 (d,J=5.3 Hz, 1H), 4.66 (t, J=5.8 Hz, 1H), 3.83-3.88 (m, 1H), 3.55-3.61 (m,4H), 3.41-3.47 (m, 1H), 3.05-3.15 (m, 4H), 2.29 (t, J=7.4 Hz, 2H), 2.03(t, J=7.6 Hz, 2H), 1.42-1.52 (m, 4H), 1.18-1.29 (m, 12H).

Step 22. Preparation of Compound 170

To a solution of (S)-methyl12-(2-(2,3-dihydroxypropanamido)ethylamino)-12-oxododecanoate 170-6(2.99 g, 7.99 mmol) in dry pyridine (57.5 mL) under nitrogen, was added4,4′-dimethoxytrityl chloride (2.84 g, 8.38 mmol) in one portion. Thereaction was stirred at room temperature for two days. Methanol (5 mL)was added to quench the reaction. Pyridine was evaporated. Toluene wasadded and then evaporated. This was repeated three times. Water (100 mL)was added and this was extracted with ethyl acetate (5×250 mL). Theextracts were combined and dried over MgSO₄. Evaporation of solvent,followed by column chromatography (1% methanol/dichloromethane-3%methanol/dichloromethane) gave (S)-methyl12-(2-(3-(bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)-2-hydroxypropanamido)-ethylamino)-12-oxododecanoate170 (1.70 g, 31.4%) as a viscous oil. ¹HNMR (400 MHz, acetone-d6, ppm):δ 7.64-7.70 (br, 1H), 7.47-7.51 (m, 2H), 7.33-7.37 (m, 4H), 7.26-7.32(m, 2H), 7.20 (dt, J=7.3, 2.1 Hz, 1H), 7.11 (br, 1H), 6.86 (d, J=8.7 Hz,4H), 4.84 (br, 1H), 4.21 (dd, J=5.1, 3.8 Hz, 1H), 3.78 (s, 6H), 3.60 (s,1H), 3.25-3.42 (m, 6H), 2.28 (t, J=7.4 Hz, 2H), 1.48-1.62 (m, 4H),1.21-1.34 (m, 12H).

Step 23. Preparation of Compounds 139, 155, 160, 165 and 170

Compounds 139, 155, 160, 165 and 170 were prepared from compounds 138,154, 159, 164 and 169 using an identical procedure to that used forcompound 18.

Step 24. Preparation of Conjugates 153, 158, 163, 168 and 173

Conjugates 153, 158, 163, 168 and 173 were prepared from compound 139,154, 159, 164 and 169 using an identical procedure to that used forcompound 1.

Example 12. Synthesis of Conjugate 176

Step. 1. Preparation of Methyl 12-aminododecanoate 132

12-aminoundecanoic acid (131) (10 g, 4.64 mmol) was stirred in MeOH atRT. Acetyl chloride (856 μL, 12 mmol) was added dropwise and thereaction stirred for 1.5 hr. The solvent was removed in-vacuo, theresidue taken up in MTBE and chilled in the fridge overnight. Theresultant precipitate was collected by filtration, washed with ice coldMTBE and dried under high vacuum to afford methyl 12-aminododecanoate132.

Step 2. Preparation of Racemic (cis) Methyl12-(12-(10-(3-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)-(phenyl)methoxy)methyl)-4-(hydroxymethyl)-3,4-dimethylpyrrolidin-1-yl)-10-oxodecanamido)dodecanamido)dodecanoate129

Lithium racemic (cis)10-(3-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)methyl)-4-(hydroxymethyl)-3,4-dimethylpyrrolidin-1-yl)-10-oxodecanoate(128) (2 g, 3.1 mmol), of methyl 12-aminododecanoate (132) (778 mg, 3.1mmol), HBTU (1.2 g, 3.1 mmol) and TEA (1.4 mL, 10 mmol) were stirred inDCM at RT O/N. The precipitate was removed by filtration, the filtrateconcentrated in-vacuo and the residue purified by column chromatography(5% MeOH, DCM). TLC showed two close running spots with identical massthat were assigned as geometric isomers and pooled together to give ofMethyl12-(12-(10-((3R,4S)-3-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)methyl)-4-(hydroxymethyl)-3,4-dimethylpyrrolidin-1-yl)-10-oxodecanamido)dodecanamido)dodecanoate(129) in quantitative fashion.

Step 3. Preparation of Racemic (cis) Lithium12-(12-(10-(-3-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)-methoxy)methyl)-4-(hydroxymethyl)-3,4-dimethylpyrrolidin-1-yl)-10-oxodecanamido)-dodecanamido)dodecanoate130

Racemic (cis) methyl12-(12-(10-(3-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)methoxy)methyl)-4-(hydroxymethyl)-3,4-dimethylpyrrolidin-1-yl)-10-oxodecanamido)dodecanamido)dodecanoate(129) (3.1 mmol) was stirred in THF:H₂O (50:50) with LiOH (88 mg, 3.7mmol) at RT O/N. Reaction was confirmed by TLC and the THF removedin-vacuo. The aqueous solution was frozen in liquid N₂ and lyophilizedfor 48 hours to give racemic (cis) Lithium12-(12-(10-(3-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)-methoxy)methyl)-4-(hydroxymethyl)-3,4-dimethylpyrrolidin-1-yl)-10-oxodecanamido)-dodecanamido)dodecanoate130 quantitatively.

Step 4. Preparation of Conjugate 176

Conjugate 176 was prepared from compounds 24 and 130 using an identicalprocedure to that used for compound 1.

Example 13. Synthesis of Conjugate 179

Step 1. Preparation of Compound 80

Compound 24 (2 g, 0.86 mmol), N-carbobenzoxy-L¹-glutamic acid (120 mg,0.43 mmol), HBTU (326 mg, 0.86 mmol) and TEA (353 μL, 2.6 mmol) werestirred in DCM at RT O/N. The mixture was concentrated in-vacuo andpurified by column chromatography to give compound 80 (2.88 g, 83%).

Step 2. Preparation of Compound 81

Compound 81 was prepared from compounds 80 (670 mg, 0.17 mmol) using anidentical procedure to that used for compound 14. The compound was usedcrude in subsequent reactions and the yield taken as quantitative.

Step 3. Preparation of Conjugate 179

Conjugate 179 was prepared from compounds 18 and 81 using an identicalprocedure to that used for compound 1.

Example 14. Synthesis of Conjugate 182

Step 1. Preparation of Compound 93

Compound 93 was prepared from (2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)-D-glutamic acid(2.25 g, 8.1 mmol) and 9 (13 g, 21 mmol) using an identical procedure tothat used for compound 89. Yield: 11.2 g.

Step 2. Preparation of Compound 94

Compound 94 was prepared from compound 93 (11.1 g) using an identicalprocedure to that used for compound 90. Yield: 10.2 g.

Step 3. Preparation of Conjugate 182

Conjugate 182 was prepared from compounds 18 and 94 using an identicalprocedure to that used for compound 1.

Example 15. Synthesis of Conjugates 185 and 188

Step 1. Preparation of 14-Hydroxy-3,6,9,12-tetraoxatetradecyl4-methylbenzenesulfonate 82

A solution of pentaethylene glycol (35 g, 147 mmol), TEA (41 mL, 294mmol) and trimethylamine-HCl (1.4 g, 14.7 mmol) in CH₂Cl₂ (600 mL) wastreated with tosyl chloride (29.4 g, 154 mmol). After stirring (18 h)the reaction mixture was washed with H₂O-brine (1:1), dried (MgSO₄),filtered, concentrated and subjected to chromatography to yield 82 (24.6g, 43%) as a pale yellow oil. Rf 0.8 (10% CH₃OH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 2. 14-azido-3,6,9,12-tetraoxatetradecan-1-ol 83

14-azido-3,6,9,12-tetraoxatetradecan-1-ol (83) was prepared from 82(24.6 g, 62.7 mmol) and sodium azide (7.13 g, 110 mmol) using anidentical procedure to that used for compound 4. Yield: 14.8 g, 90%.

Step 3. Preparation of Compound 84

A solution of GalNAc 6 (12.2 g, 31.4 mmol) and HO-PEG-N₃ 83 (9.2 g, 35mmol) in 1,2-dichloroethane (150 mL) was treated with Sc(OTf)₃ (771 mg,1.6 mmol). After stirring (85° C., 2 hr) the reaction was cooled (RT),quenched by the addition of TEA (40 mL) and concentrated. The crudematerial was subjected to chromatography to yield 84 (11.16 g, 60%) as apale yellow foam. Rf 0.7 (10% CH₃OH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 4. Preparation of Compound 85

A solution of 84 (11.16 g, 18.8 mmol) and Pd/C (11 g, 10%-wet support)in EtOAc (120 mL) was treated with TFA (4.32 mL, 56.5 mmol) and purgedwith H₂. After stirring vigorously (4.5 h) the reaction was purged withN₂, filtered through Celite and concentrated. The crude material wassubjected to chromatography to yield 85 (5.77 g, 45%) as a colorlessfoam. Rf 0.5 (10% CH₃OH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 5. Preparation of Compound 95

Compound 95 was prepared from (2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)-D-glutamic acid(1.04 g, 3.7 mmol) and compound 94 (10.2 g) using an identical procedureto that used for compound 91. Yield: 7.2 g.

Step 6. Preparation of Compound 96

Compound 96 was prepared from compound 95 (11.1 g) using an identicalprocedure to that used for compound 92. Yield: 6.5 g.

Step 7. Preparation of Compound 97

Compound 97 was prepared from (2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)-D-glutamic acid(2 g, 7.1 mmol) and 85 (12.1 g, 17.8 mmol) using an identical procedureto that used for compound 89. Yield: 10 g, quantitative.

Step 8. Preparation of Compound 98

Compound 98 was prepared from compound 97 (10 g, 7.2 mmol) using anidentical procedure to that used for compound 90. Yield: 3.5 g, 36%.

Step 9. Preparation of Compound 99

Compound 99 was prepared quantitatively from(2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)-D-glutamic acid (350 mg, 1.25 mmol) andcompound 98 (2.86 mg, 2.5 mmol) using an identical procedure to thatused for compound 91.

Step 10. Preparation of Compound 100

Compound 100 was prepared quantitatively from compound 99 (3.2 g, 1.25mmol) using an identical procedure to that used for compound 92.

Step 11. Preparation of Conjugates 185 and 188

Conjugate 185 and 188 were prepared from compounds 18 and 96 or 18 and100 using an identical procedure to that used for compound 1.

Example 16. Synthesis of Conjugates 191, 194, 197 and 200

Step 1. Preparation of 2-(2-(2-azidoethoxy)ethoxy)ethan-1-ol 86

To a solution of 2-(2-(2-chloroethoxy)ethoxy)ethan-1-ol (13 g, 77 mmol)in water (200 mL) is added sodium azide (10 g, 154 mmol). The reactionwas heated to 100° C. for 18 hours. The reaction is cooled to roomtemperature and poured into a 1 L separatory funnel and extracted withdichloromethane (3×200 mL). The combine dichloromethane extracts aredried on magnesium sulfate, filtered and concentrated to dryness toafford 2-(2-(2-azidoethoxy)ethoxy)ethan-1-ol as a colorless oil (11.7g).

Step 2. Preparation of Compound 87

Compound 87 is prepared from 86 (4.95 g, 28.3 mmol) and 6 (10 g, 25.7mmol) using an identical procedure to that used for compound 84. Yield:10 g, 77%.

Step 3. Preparation of Compound 88

Compound 88 is prepared from 87 (10 g, 19.8 mmol) using an identicalprocedure to that used for compound 85. Yield: 7.63 g, 65%.

Step 4. Preparation of Compound 89

A solution of 88 (2 g, 3.38 mmol) and Z-glutamic acid (427 mg, 1.52mmol) in CH₂Cl₂ (50 mL) is treated with HBTU (1.41 g, 3.7 mmol) andHünig's base (1.77 mL, 10.1 mmol). After stirring (18 h) the mixture isconcentrated and subjected to chromatography to yield 89 (871 mg, 48%)as a colorless foam. Rf 0.5 (10% CH₃H—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 5. Preparation of Compound 90

A solution of 89 (870 mg, 0.72 mmol) and Pd/C (90 mg, 10%-wet support)in EtOAc (10 mL) is treated with TFA (84 μL, 1.1 mmol) and purged withH₂. After stirring vigorously (2 h) the reaction is purged with N₂,filtered through Celite and concentrated. The crude material is usedwithout further processing and yielded 90 (850 mg, quantitative) as acolorless foam. Rf 0.25 (10% CH₃OH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 6. Preparation of Compound 91

A solution of 90 (850 mg, 0.72 mmol) and Z-glutamic acid (91 mg, 0.32mmol) in CH₂Cl₂ (10 mL) is treated with HBTU (300 mg, 0.79 mmol) andHünig's base (502 μL, 2.9 mmol). After stirring (1.5 h) the mixture isdiluted with CH₂Cl₂ and washed with NaHCO₃ (Sat. Aq.), dried (MgSO₄),filtered and concentrated. The crude material is subjected tochromatography to yield 91 (590 mg, 76%) as a colorless foam. Rf 0.5(10% CH₃H—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 7. Preparation of Compound 92

A solution of 91 (590 mg, 0.25 mmol) and Pd/C (100 mg, 10%-wet support)in CH₃OH (30 mL) is treated with TFA (29 μL, 0.37 mmol) and purged withH₂. After stirring (3 h) the mixture is purged with N₂, then filteredthrough Celite and concentrated. The crude material is used withoutfurther processing and yielded 92 (600 mg, quantitative) as a colorlessfoam. Rf 0.1 (10% CH₃OH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 8. Preparation of Compound 101

Compound 101 is prepared from(R)-2-((2-oxo-2-phenyl-112-ethyl)amino)hexanedioic acid (2.51 g, 8.6mmol) and 9 (11 g, 17.2 mmol) using an identical procedure to that usedfor compound 89. Yield: 4.2 g, 37%.

Step 9. Preparation of Compound 102

Compound 102 is prepared from compound 101 (4.2 g, 3.2 mmol) using anidentical procedure to that used for compound 90. Yield: 2.1 g, 47%.

Step 10. Preparation of Compound 103

Compound 103 is prepared from(R)-2-((2-oxo-2-phenyl-112-ethyl)amino)hexanedioic acid (265 mg, 0.9mmol) and compound 102 (2.1 g, 1.8 mmol) using an identical procedure tothat used for compound 91. Yield: (560 mg, 24%).

Step 11. Preparation of Compound 104

Compound 104 is prepared quantitatively from compound 103 (560 mg) usingan identical procedure to that used for compound 92. The compound isused without purification.

Step 12. Preparation of Conjugates 191, 194, and 197

Conjugates 191, 194, and 197 are prepared from compound 128 and 92, 96,and 100 using an identical procedure to that used for compound 1.

Example 16a. Synthesis of Conjugates 191a

Step 1. Preparation of 2-(2-(2-azidoethoxy)ethoxy)ethan-1-ol 86a

To a solution of 2-(2-(2-chloroethoxy)ethoxy)ethan-1-ol (13 g, 77 mmol)in water (200 mL) was added sodium azide (10 g, 154 mmol). The reactionwas heated to 100° C. for 18 hours. The reaction was cooled to roomtemperature and poured into a 1 L separatory funnel and extracted withdichloromethane (3×200 mL). The combine dichloromethane extracts weredried on magnesium sulfate, filtered and concentrated to dryness toafford 2-(2-(2-azidoethoxy)ethoxy)ethan-1-ol as a colorless oil (11.7g).

Step 2. Preparation of Compound 87a

Compound 87a was prepared from 86a (4.95 g, 28.3 mmol) and 6a (10 g,25.7 mmol) using an identical procedure to that used for compound 84.Yield: 10 g, 77%.

Step 3. Preparation of Compound 88a

Compound 88a was prepared from 87a (10 g, 19.8 mmol) using an identicalprocedure to that used for compound 85. Yield: 7.63 g, 65%.

Step 4. Preparation of Compound 89a

A solution of 88a (2 g, 3.38 mmol) and Z L-glutamic acid (427 mg, 1.52mmol) in CH₂Cl₂ (50 mL) was treated with HBTU (1.41 g, 3.7 mmol) andHünig's base (1.77 mL, 10.1 mmol). After stirring (18 h) the mixture wasconcentrated and subjected to chromatography to yield 89a (871 mg, 48%)as a colorless foam. Rf 0.5 (10% CH₃OH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 5. Preparation of Compound 90a

A solution of 89a (870 mg, 0.72 mmol) and Pd/C (90 mg, 10%-wet support)in EtOAc (10 mL) was treated with TFA (84 μL, 1.1 mmol) and purged withH₂. After stirring vigorously (2 h) the reaction was purged with N₂,filtered through Celite and concentrated. The crude material was usedwithout further processing and yielded 90a (850 mg, quantitative) as acolorless foam. Rf 0.25 (10% CH₃OH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 6. Preparation of Compound 91a

A solution of 90a (850 mg, 0.72 mmol) and Z-glutamic acid (91 mg, 0.32mmol) in CH₂Cl₂ (10 mL) was treated with HBTU (300 mg, 0.79 mmol) andHünig's base (502 μL, 2.9 mmol). After stirring (1.5 h) the mixturediluted with CH₂Cl₂ and washed with NaHCO₃ (Sat. Aq.), dried (MgSO₄),filtered and concentrated. The crude material was subjected tochromatography to yield 91a (590 mg, 76%) as a colorless foam. Rf 0.5(10% CH₃OH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 7. Preparation of Compound 92a

A solution of 91a (590 mg, 0.25 mmol) and Pd/C (100 mg, 10%-wet support)in CH₃OH (30 mL) was treated with TFA (29 μL, 0.37 mmol) and purged withH₂. After stirring (3 h) the mixture was purged with N₂, then filteredthrough Celite and concentrated. The crude material was used withoutfurther processing and yielded 92a (600 mg, quantitative) as a colorlessfoam. Rf 0.1 (10% CH₃OH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 8. Preparation of Conjugate 191a

Conjugate 191a was prepared from compound 128 and compound 92a using anidentical procedure to that used for compound 1.

Example 16b. Synthesis of Conjugates 191b

Step 1. Preparation of 2-(2-(2-azidoethoxy)ethoxy)ethan-1-ol 86b

To a solution of 2-(2-(2-chloroethoxy)ethoxy)ethan-1-ol (13 g, 77 mmol)in water (200 mL) is added sodium azide (10 g, 154 mmol). The reactionwas heated to 100° C. for 18 hours. The reaction was cooled to roomtemperature and poured into a 1 L separatory funnel and extracted withdichloromethane (3×200 mL). The combine dichloromethane extracts weredried on magnesium sulfate, filtered and concentrated to dryness toafford 2-(2-(2-azidoethoxy)ethoxy)ethan-1-ol as a colorless oil (11.7g).

Step 2. Preparation of Compound 87b

Compound 87a is prepared from 86b (4.95 g, 28.3 mmol) and 6b (10 g, 25.7mmol) using an identical procedure to that used for compound 84. Yield:10 g, 77%.

Step 3. Preparation of Compound 88b

Compound 88a is prepared from 87b (10 g, 19.8 mmol) using an identicalprocedure to that used for compound 85. Yield: 7.63 g, 65%.

Step 4. Preparation of Compound 89b

A solution of 88b (2 g, 3.38 mmol) and racemic Z-glutamic acid (427 mg,1.52 mmol) in CH₂Cl₂ (50 mL) is treated with HBTU (1.41 g, 3.7 mmol) andHünig's base (1.77 mL, 10.1 mmol). After stirring (18 h) the mixture wasconcentrated and subjected to chromatography to yield 89b (871 mg, 48%)as a colorless foam. Rf 0.5 (10% CH₃OH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 5. Preparation of Compound 90b

A solution of 89b (870 mg, 0.72 mmol) and Pd/C (90 mg, 10%-wet support)in EtOAc (10 mL) is treated with TFA (84 μL, 1.1 mmol) and purged withH₂. After stirring vigorously (2 h) the reaction is purged with N₂,filtered through Celite and concentrated. The crude material is usedwithout further processing and yielded 90b (850 mg, quantitative) as acolorless foam. Rf 0.25 (10% CH₃OH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 6. Preparation of Compound 91b

A solution of 90b (850 mg, 0.72 mmol) and Z-glutamic acid (91 mg, 0.32mmol) in CH₂Cl₂ (10 mL) is treated with HBTU (300 mg, 0.79 mmol) andHünig's base (502 μL, 2.9 mmol). After stirring (1.5 h) the mixture isdiluted with CH₂Cl₂ and washed with NaHCO₃ (Sat. Aq.), dried (MgSO₄),filtered and concentrated. The crude material is subjected tochromatography to yield 91b (590 mg, 76%) as a colorless foam. Rf 0.5(10% CH₃OH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 7. Preparation of Compound 92b

A solution of 91b (590 mg, 0.25 mmol) and Pd/C (100 mg, 10%-wet support)in CH₃OH (30 mL) is treated with TFA (29 μL, 0.37 mmol) and purged withH₂. After stirring (3 h) the mixture is purged with N₂, then filteredthrough Celite and concentrated. The crude material is used withoutfurther processing and yielded 92b (600 mg, quantitative) as a colorlessfoam. Rf 0.1 (10% CH₃OH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 8. Preparation of Conjugate 191b

Conjugate 191b is prepared from compound 128 and compound 92b using anidentical procedure to that used for compound 1.

Example 16c. Synthesis of Conjugates 191c

Step 1. Preparation of 2-(2-(2-azidoethoxy)ethoxy)ethan-1-ol 86c

To a solution of 2-(2-(2-chloroethoxy)ethoxy)ethan-1-ol (13 g, 77 mmol)in water (200 mL) is added sodium azide (10 g, 154 mmol). The reactionwas heated to 100° C. for 18 hours. The reaction was cooled to roomtemperature and poured into a 1 L separatory funnel and extracted withdichloromethane (3×200 mL). The combine dichloromethane extracts weredried on magnesium sulfate, filtered and concentrated to dryness toafford 2-(2-(2-azidoethoxy)ethoxy)ethan-1-ol as a colorless oil (11.7g).

Step 2. Preparation of Compound 87c

Compound 87c is prepared from 86c (4.95 g, 28.3 mmol) and 6c (10 g, 25.7mmol) using an identical procedure to that used for compound 84. Yield:10 g, 77%.

Step 3. Preparation of Compound 88c

Compound 88c is prepared from 87c (10 g, 19.8 mmol) using an identicalprocedure to that used for compound 85. Yield: 7.63 g, 65%.

Step 4. Preparation of Compound 89c

A solution of 88c (2 g, 3.38 mmol) and racemic Z-glutamic acid (427 mg,1.52 mmol) in CH₂Cl₂ (50 mL) is treated with HBTU (1.41 g, 3.7 mmol) andHünig's base (1.77 mL, 10.1 mmol). After stirring (18 h) the mixture wasconcentrated and subjected to chromatography to yield 89c (871 mg, 48%)as a colorless foam. Rf 0.5 (10% CH₃OH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 5. Preparation of Compound 90c

A solution of 89c (870 mg, 0.72 mmol) and Pd/C (90 mg, 10%-wet support)in EtOAc (10 mL) is treated with TFA (84 μL, 1.1 mmol) and purged withH₂. After stirring vigorously (2 h) the reaction is purged with N₂,filtered through Celite and concentrated. The crude material is usedwithout further processing and yielded 90c (850 mg, quantitative) as acolorless foam. Rf 0.25 (10% CH₃OH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 6. Preparation of Compound 91c

A solution of 90c (850 mg, 0.72 mmol) and Z-glutamic acid (91 mg, 0.32mmol) in CH₂Cl₂ (10 mL) is treated with HBTU (300 mg, 0.79 mmol) andHünig's base (502 μL, 2.9 mmol). After stirring (1.5 h) the mixture isdiluted with CH₂Cl₂ and washed with NaHCO₃ (Sat. Aq.), dried (MgSO₄),filtered and concentrated. The crude material is subjected tochromatography to yield 91c (590 mg, 76%) as a colorless foam. Rf 0.5(10% CH₃H—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 7. Preparation of Compound 92c

A solution of 91c (590 mg, 0.25 mmol) and Pd/C (100 mg, 10%-wet support)in CH₃OH (30 mL) is treated with TFA (29 μL, 0.37 mmol) and purged withH₂. After stirring (3 h) the mixture is purged with N₂, then filteredthrough Celite and concentrated. The crude material is used withoutfurther processing and yielded 92c (600 mg, quantitative) as a colorlessfoam. Rf 0.1 (10% CH₃OH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 8. Preparation of Conjugate 191c

Conjugate 191c is prepared from compound 128 and compound 92c using anidentical procedure to that used for compound 1.

Example 17. Synthesis of Conjugates 203 and 206

Step 1. Preparation of Compound 69b

Compound 69b was prepared from (2S,4R)-4-Hydroxypyrrolidine-2-carboxylicacid using an identical procedure to that used for compound 69.

Step 2. Preparation of Conjugates 203 and 206

Conjugates 203 and 206 were prepared from compound 96 and 100 using anidentical procedure to that used for compound 1.

Example 18. Synthesis of Conjugate 209

Step 1. Preparation of Conjugate 209

Conjugate 209 was prepared from compound 96 and 160 using an identicalprocedure to that used for compound 1.

Example 18a. Synthesis of Conjugate 209a

Step 1. Preparation of Conjugate 209a

Conjugate 209a is prepared from compound 96a and 160 using an identicalprocedure to that used for compound 1.

Example 19. Synthesis of Conjugates 212 and 215

Step 1. Preparation of Dimethyl5-(2-((2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)amino)acetamido)-isophthalate 105

A solution of dimethyl 5-aminoisophthalate (5 g, 24 mmol), Z-Gly-OH (5g, 24 mmol), EDC (5 g, 26.3 mmol), HOBt (3.6 g, 26.3 mmol), NMM (2.9 mL,26.3 mmol) in DMF (50 mL) was stirred overnight at room temperature.Upon completion, the reaction mixture was diluted with ethyl acetate(250 mL) and washed with each 1M HCl (2×100 mL), saturated sodiumbicarbonate (1×100 mL) and brine (2×100 mL). Dry on magnesium sulfate,filter and concentrate to dryness to afford Dimethyl5-(2-((2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)amino)acetamido)isophthalate as acolorless solid (7.2 g, 79%).

Step 2. Preparation of5-(2-((2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)amino)acetamido)isophthalic Acid 106

To a solution of methyl5-(2-((2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)amino)acetamido)isophthalate (7.2 g) inmethanol (25 mL) and THF (25 mL) was added 1M NaOH (25 mL). The solutionwas stirred at room temperature for 2 hours then concentrated to removeTHE and MeOH. The aqueous solution remaining was diluted with water (75mL), cooled on an ice water bath and acidified to pH=1 with 6M HCl. Thesolid was filtered and washed with water (3×100 mL). The solid wasfreeze dried to afford5-(2-((2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)amino)acetamido)-isophthalic acid (6.9g, quantitative).

Step 3. Preparation of Compound 107

Compound 107 was prepared from5-(2-((2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)amino)acetamido)isophthalic acid 106(200 mg, 0.54 mmol) and 94 (1.7 g, 1.3 mmol) using an identicalprocedure to that used for compound 95. Yield: 600 mg.

Step 4. Preparation of Compound 108

Compound 108 was prepared from compound 107 (600 mg) using an identicalprocedure to that used for compound 96. Yield: 650 mg, quantitative.

Step 5. Preparation of Compound 109

Compound 109 was prepared from5-(2-((2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)amino)acetamido)isophthalic acid 106(180 mg, 0.48 mmol) and 98 (1.5 g, 1.1 mmol) using an identicalprocedure to that used for compound 99. Yield: 900 mg.

Step 6. Preparation of Compound 110

Compound 110 was prepared from compound 109 (900 mg) using an identicalprocedure to that used for compound 100. Yield: 920 mg, quantitative.

Step 7. Preparation of Conjugates 212 and 215

Conjugates 212 and 215 were prepared from compound 128 and 108 or 110using an identical procedure to that used for compound 1.

Example 19a. Synthesis of Conjugates 212a and 215a

Step 1. Preparation of Dimethyl5-(2-((2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)amino)acetamido)-isophthalate 105a

A solution of dimethyl 5-aminoisophthalate (5 g, 24 mmol), Z-Gly-OH (5g, 24 mmol), EDC (5 g, 26.3 mmol), HOBt (3.6 g, 26.3 mmol), NMM (2.9 mL,26.3 mmol) in DMF (50 mL) is stirred overnight at room temperature. Uponcompletion, the reaction mixture is diluted with ethyl acetate (250 mL)and washed with each 1M HCl (2×100 mL), saturated sodium bicarbonate(1×100 mL) and brine (2×100 mL). Dry on magnesium sulfate, filter andconcentrate to dryness to afford Dimethyl5-(2-((2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)amino)acetamido)isophthalate as acolorless solid (7.2 g, 79%).

Step 2. Preparation of5-(2-((2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)amino)acetamido)isophthalic Acid 106a

To a solution of methyl5-(2-((2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)amino)acetamido)isophthalate (7.2 g) inmethanol (25 mL) and THF (25 mL) is added 1M NaOH (25 mL). The solutionis stirred at room temperature for 2 hours then concentrated to removeTHE and MeOH. The aqueous solution remaining is diluted with water (75mL), cooled on an ice water bath and acidified to pH=1 with 6M HCl. Thesolid is filtered and washed with water (3×100 mL). The solid is freezedried to afford5-(2-((2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)amino)acetamido)-isophthalic acid (6.9g, quantitative).

Step 3. Preparation of Compound 107a

Compound 107a is prepared from5-(2-((2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)amino)acetamido)isophthalic acid 106a(200 mg, 0.54 mmol) and 94a (1.7 g, 1.3 mmol) using an identicalprocedure to that used for compound 95. Yield: 600 mg.

Step 4. Preparation of Compound 108a

Compound 108a is prepared from compound 107a (600 mg) using an identicalprocedure to that used for compound 96a. Yield: 650 mg, quantitative.

Step 5. Preparation of Compound 109a

Compound 109a is prepared from5-(2-((2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)amino)acetamido)isophthalic acid 106a(180 mg, 0.48 mmol) and 9a8 (1.5 g, 1.1 mmol) using an identicalprocedure to that used for compound 99. Yield: 900 mg.

Step 6. Preparation of Compound 110a

Compound 110a is prepared from compound 109 (900 mg) using an identicalprocedure to that used for compound 100. Yield: 920 mg, quantitative.

Step 7. Preparation of Conjugates 212a and 215a

Conjugates 212a and 21a5 are prepared from compound 128 and 108a or 110ausing an identical procedure to that used for compound 1.

Example 20. Synthesis of Conjugates 218 and 221

Step 1. Preparation of Compound 111

Compound 111 was prepared from4-(((tert-butoxycarbonyl)amino)methyl)phthalic acid (1.13 g, 3.84 mmol)and 88 (5 g, 8.44 mmol) using an identical procedure to that used forcompound 89. Yield: 2.21 g, 49%.

Step 2. Preparation of Compound 112

A solution of 111 (2.21 g, 1.87 mmol) in CH₂Cl₂ (40 mL) was slowlytreated with TFA (5 mL). After stirring (2 h) the mixture wasconcentrated and subjected to chromatography to yield 112 (1.08 g, 47%)as a colorless foam. Rf 0.1 (10% CH₃OH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 3. Preparation of Compound 113

Compound 113 was prepared from compound 112 (1.08 g, 0.88 mmol) and(2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)-D-glutamic acid (112 mg, 0.39 mmol) using anidentical procedure to that used for compound 91. Yield: 600 mg, 62%.

Step 4. Preparation of Compound 114

Compound 114 was prepared from compound 113 using an identical procedureto that used for compound 92.

Step 5. Preparation of Compound 115

Compound 115 was prepared from4-(((tert-butoxycarbonyl)amino)methyl)phthalic acid (3.94 g, 13.3 mmol)and 9 (18.2 g, 29.4 mmol) using an identical procedure to that used forcompound 93. Yield: 9.02 g, 53%.

Step 6. Preparation of Compound 116

Compound 116 was prepared from compound 115 (8 g, 6.3 mmol) using anidentical procedure to that used for compound 112. Yield: 3.23 g, 39%.

Step 7. Preparation of Compound 117

Compound 117 was prepared from compound 116 (3.23 g, 2.45 mmol) and(2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)-D-glutamic acid (192 mg, 1.1 mmol) using anidentical procedure to that used for compound 95. Yield: 2.22 g, 34%.

Step 8. Preparation of Compound 118

Compound 118 was prepared from compound 117 (2.22 g, 0.84 mmol) using anidentical procedure to that used for compound 96. Yield: 2.02 g, 91%.

Step 9. Preparation of Conjugates 218 and 221

Conjugates 218 and 221 were prepared from compounds 128 and 114 or 118using an identical procedure to that used for compound 1.

Example 20a. Synthesis of Conjugates 218a and 221a

Step 1. Preparation of Compound 111a

Compound 111a is prepared from4-(((tert-butoxycarbonyl)amino)methyl)phthalic acid (1.13 g, 3.84 mmol)and 88 (5 g, 8.44 mmol) using an identical procedure to that used forcompound 89. Yield: 2.21 g, 49%.

Step 2. Preparation of Compound 112a

A solution of 111a (2.21 g, 1.87 mmol) in CH₂Cl₂ (40 mL) is slowlytreated with TFA (5 mL). After stirring (2 h) the mixture isconcentrated and subjected to chromatography to yield 112a (1.08 g, 47%)as a colorless foam. Rf 0.1 (10% CH₃OH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 3. Preparation of Compound 113a

Compound 113a is prepared from compound 112a (1.08 g, 0.88 mmol) and(2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)-D-glutamic acid (112 mg, 0.39 mmol) using anidentical procedure to that used for compound 91. Yield: 600 mg, 62%.

Step 4. Preparation of Compound 114a

Compound 114a is prepared from compound 113a using an identicalprocedure to that used for compound 92.

Step 5. Preparation of Compound 115a

Compound 115a is prepared from4-(((tert-butoxycarbonyl)amino)methyl)phthalic acid (3.94 g, 13.3 mmol)and 9 (18.2 g, 29.4 mmol) using an identical procedure to that used forcompound 93. Yield: 9.02 g, 53%.

Step 6. Preparation of Compound 116a

Compound 116a is prepared from compound 115a (8 g, 6.3 mmol) using anidentical procedure to that used for compound 11a. Yield: 3.23 g, 39%.

Step 7. Preparation of Compound 117a

Compound 117a is prepared from compound 116a (3.23 g, 2.45 mmol) and(2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)glutamic acid (192 mg, 1.1 mmol) using anidentical procedure to that used for compound 95. Yield: 2.22 g, 34%.

Step 8. Preparation of Compound 118a

Compound 118a is prepared from compound 117a (2.22 g, 0.84 mmol) usingan identical procedure to that used for compound 96. Yield: 2.02 g, 91%.

Step 9. Preparation of Conjugates 21a8 and 221a

Conjugates 218a and 22a1 are prepared from compounds 128 and 114a or118a using an identical procedure to that used for compound 1.

Example 21. Synthesis of Conjugate 224

Step 1. Preparation of Compounds 224

Conjugate 224 was prepared from compounds 96 and 130 using an identicalprocedure to that used for compound 1.

Example 21a. Synthesis of Conjugate 224b

Step 1. Preparation of Compounds 224b

Conjugate 224b is prepared from compounds 96b and 130 using an identicalprocedure to that used for compound 1.

Example 22 Synthesis of Conjugate 231

Step 1 Preparation of Compound 225

Compound 225 was prepared from 5-(2-aminoacetamido)isophthalic acid 106(560 mg, 1.5 mmol) and 9 (2.24 g, 3.6 mmol) using an identical procedureto that used for 89. Yield 1.6 g, 80%.

Step 2 Preparation of Compound 226

Compound 226 was prepared in the same fashion as 14. Yield 1.22 g, 78%.

Step 3 Preparation of Compound 227

Compound 227 was prepared in the same fashion as 89, from Z-glutamicacid (108 mg, 0.38 mmol) and 226 (1.22 g, 0.92 mmol). Yield 471 mg, 45%.

Step 4 Preparation of Compound 228

Compound 228 was prepared in the same fashion as 14. Yield 460 mg,Quant.

Step 5 Preparation of Compound 229

Compound 229 was prepared from 228 (460 mg, 0.17 mmol) and 128 (125 mg,0.19 mmol) in the same fashion as 89. Yield 365 mg, 66%.

Step 6 Preparation of Compound 231

Conjugate 231 was prepared using an identical procedure to that used forcompound 1.

Example 22a Synthesis of Conjugate 231a

Step 1 Preparation of Compound 225a

Compound 225a is prepared from 5-(2-aminoacetamido)isophthalic acid 106(560 mg, 1.5 mmol) and 9 (2.24 g, 3.6 mmol) using an identical procedureto that used for 89. Yield 1.6 g, 80%.

Step 2 Preparation of Compound 226a

Compound 226a is prepared in the same fashion as 14. Yield 1.22 g, 78%.

Step 3 Preparation of Compound 227a

Compound 227a is prepared in the same fashion as 89, from Z-glutamicacid (108 mg, 0.38 mmol) and 226a (1.22 g, 0.92 mmol). Yield 471 mg,45%.

Step 4 Preparation of Compound 228a

Compound 228a is prepared in the same fashion as 14. Yield 460 mg,Quant.

Step 5 Preparation of Compound 229a

Compound 229a is prepared from 228a (460 mg, 0.17 mmol) and 128 (125 mg,0.19 mmol) in the same fashion as 89. Yield 365 mg, 66%.

Step 6 Preparation of Compound 231a

Conjugate 231a is prepared using an identical procedure to that used forcompound 1.

Example 22b Synthesis of Conjugate 231b

Step 1 Preparation of Compound 225b

Compound 225b is prepared from 5-(2-aminoacetamido)isophthalic acid 106(560 mg, 1.5 mmol) and 9 (2.24 g, 3.6 mmol) using an identical procedureto that used for 89. Yield 1.6 g, 80%.

Step 2 Preparation of Compound 226b

Compound 226b is prepared in the same fashion as 14. Yield 1.22 g, 78%.

Step 3 Preparation of Compound 227b

Compound 227b is prepared in the same fashion as 89, from Z-glutamicacid (108 mg, 0.38 mmol) and 226b (1.22 g, 0.92 mmol). Yield 471 mg,45%.

Step 4 Preparation of Compound 228b

Compound 228b is prepared in the same fashion as 14. Yield 460 mg,Quant.

Step 5 Preparation of Compound 229b

Compound 229b is prepared from 228b (460 mg, 0.17 mmol) and 128 (125 mg,0.19 mmol) in the same fashion as 89. Yield 365 mg, 66%.

Step 6 Preparation of Compound 231b

Conjugate 231b is prepared using an identical procedure to that used forcompound 1.

Example 23. Synthesis of Conjugate 233

Step 1. Preparation of Compound 232

Compound 232 was prepared from compound 24 (650 mg, 0.33 mmol) andcompound 69b (175 mg, 0.33 mmol) using an identical procedure to thatused for compound 19. Yield: 380 mg, 47%.

Step 2. Preparation of Compound 233

Compound 233 was prepared from compound 232 using identical proceduresto that used for compound 1.

Example 24. Synthesis of Conjugate 235

Step 1. Preparation of Compound 234

Compound 234 was prepared from compound 24 (1.1 g, 0.55 mmol) andcompound 18 (175 mg, 0.33 mmol) using an identical procedure to thatused for compound 19. Yield: 685 mg, 51%.

Step 2. Preparation of Compound 235

Compound 235 was prepared from compound 234 using identical proceduresto that used for compound 1.

Example 25. In Vivo Testing of HBV siRNA Conjugates

Chronic HBV infection is a worldwide disease with progressing damage tothe liver. Current treatments available may reduce the viral DNA buthave had little effect on the viral antigens that contribute greatly tothe disease progression. Thus, siRNAs to target HBV to reduce the viralantigens were designed.

Chemically modified HBV siRNA described in Table 1 conjugated to GalNAcligands were tested for in vivo activity in an established mouse modelof HBV infection. In the AAV-HBV1.2 C57BL/6 mouse model, stable andpersistent HBV expression is achieved after injection of anadeno-associated virus (AAV) vector encoding an over-genomic lengthsequence of HBV, leading to hepatic expression of HBV RNA and proteinsand the secretion of viral and sub-viral particles into the blood.

The AAV-HBV1.2 construct used in these studies was based on detailsprovided in Dion, S., et al., Journal of Virology, 2013, 87(10):5554-5563. All animal-related procedures were conducted according towritten operating procedures, in accordance with Canadian Council onAnimal Care (CCAC) Guidelines on Good Animal Practices, and approved bythe local Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC).

Each animal was inoculated with 1E11 vector genomes (VG) of AAV-HBV1.2vector. Prior to treatment, all animals were test bled and serum HBsAglevels determined for individual animals to confirm established HBVexpression.

siRNA treatment: Groups of mice (typically n=5) were administered asingle 3 mg/kg dose of HBV siRNA conjugate once on Day 0 (1 dose peranimal) via subcutaneous injection in the scapular region. One group ofanimals administered vehicle only (saline) served as controls.

Collections: All mice were test bled on Day 0, prior to treatment, andat defined time points after test article administration (for example onstudy days 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, 42, 49, 56, 63, and 70) to determinemaximum reductions in serum HBsAg levels and the duration ofpharmacologic activity.

Analysis: HBsAg levels in serum samples were determined using the BioradEIA GS HBsAg 3.0 kit (BioRad, catalog no. 32591) as per themanufacturer's instructions. Pooled serum from each treatment group wasused to determine the group mean HBsAg levels at individual time points.Data was analyzed and expressed as HBsAg levels relative topre-treatment baseline (% relative to Day 0).

Results: Results from testing each of the chemically modified HBV siRNAdescribed in Table 1 are presented in Table 2. Values represent % HBsAglevels (relative to Day 0 baseline) on Days 7, 14, 21, 28, 42, 49, 56and 70 post treatment.

TABLE 1 Chemically Modified HBV siRNA duplexes siRNA Sense strandSense strand Antisense strand Antisense strand Number SEQ ID NO 5′-3′SEQ ID NO 5′-3′  1 SEQ ID NO: 1 csgsugugCaCUUcgcuucaccu SEQ ID NO: 2asGsgugAaGCgaagUgCacacgsgsuUU  2 SEQ ID NO: 3 usgsCaCUUcgcuucaccuSEQ ID NO: 4 asGsgugAaGCgaagUgCacascsgU  3 SEQ ID NO: 5usgscaCUUcgcuucaccu SEQ ID NO: 6 asGsgugaagcgaagUgCacascsgU  4SEQ ID NO: 7 usgscaCUUCgcuucaccu SEQ ID NO: 8 asGsgugAagcgaagUgCacascsgU 5 SEQ ID NO: 9 CscsGuGuGcACUucGcuuCacc SEQ ID NO: 10gsGsUgAaGcgAaguGcAcAcGgsusc  6 SEQ ID NO: 11 cscsguguGcACUucgcuucaccSEQ ID NO: 12 gsGsugaAgCGaaguGcAcacggsusc  7 SEQ ID NO: 13cscsguGuGcAcUucgcuucacc SEQ ID NO: 14 gsGsugaAgCGaaguGcAcacggsusc  8SEQ ID NO: 15 cscsguguGcACUucgcuuCacc SEQ ID NO: 16gsGsugaAgCgaaguGcAcacGgsusc  9 SEQ ID NO: 17 cscsgugugcACUucgcuucaccSEQ ID NO: 18 gsGsugaagcgaaguGcAcacggsusc 10 SEQ ID NO: 19cscsguguGcacuucgcuucacc SEQ ID NO: 20 gsgsugaAgCGaagugcacacggsusc 11SEQ ID NO: 21 CscsGuGuGcACUucGcuuCacc SEQ ID NO: 22gsGsUgAaGcgAaguGcAcAcGgsuscUU 12 SEQ ID NO: 23 cscsguguGcACUucgcuucaccSEQ ID NO: 24 gsGsugaAgCGaaguGcAcacggsuscUU 13 SEQ ID NO: 25cscsguGuGcAcUucgcuucacc SEQ ID NO: 26 gsGsugaAgCGaaguGcAcacggsuscUU 14SEQ ID NO: 27 cscsguguGcACUucgcuuCacc SEQ ID NO: 28gsGsugaAgCgaaguGcAcacGgsuscUU 15 SEQ ID NO: 29 GsusGcACUucGcuuCaccSEQ ID NO: 30 gsGsUgAaGcgAaguGcAcAcsGsgU 16 SEQ ID NO: 31GsusGcACUucGcuuCacc SEQ ID NO: 32 gsGsUgAaGcgAaguGcAcAcsGsg 17SEQ ID NO: 33 GsusGcACUucGcuuCacc SEQ ID NO: 34gsGsUgAaGcgAaguGcAcsAscsGsg 18 SEQ ID NO: 35 CscsGuGuGcACUucGcuuCacaSEQ ID NO: 36 usGsUgAaGcgAaguGcAcAcGgsusc 19 SEQ ID NO: 37CscsGuGuGcACUucGcuuCaca SEQ ID NO: 38 usGsUgAaGcgAaguGcAcAcGgsuscUU 20SEQ ID NO: 39 cscsguguGcACUucgcuucaca SEQ ID NO: 40usGsugaAgCGaaguGcAcacggsuscUU 21 SEQ ID NO: 41 cscsguGuGcAcUucgcuucacaSEQ ID NO: 42 usGsugaAgCGaaguGcAcacggsuscUU 22 SEQ ID NO: 43cscsguguGcACUucgcuuCaca SEQ ID NO: 44 usGsugaAgCgaaguGcAcacGgsuscUU 23SEQ ID NO: 45 cscsgugugcACUucgcuucaca SEQ ID NO: 46usGsugaagcgaaguGcAcacggsuscUU 24 SEQ ID NO: 47 gsusGcACUucgcuucacaSEQ ID NO: 48 usGsugaAgCGaaguGcAcacsgsgU 25 SEQ ID NO: 49gsusgcACUucgcuucaca SEQ ID NO: 50 usGsugaagcgaaguGcAcacsgsgU 26SEQ ID NO: 51 gsusGcaCUucgcuucaca SEQ ID NO: 52usGsugaagcgaaguGcAcacsgsgU 27 SEQ ID NO: 53 GsusGcACUucGcuuCacaSEQ ID NO: 54 usGsUgAaGcgAaguGcAcAcsGsg 28 SEQ ID NO: 55uscsgcuuCaCCUcugcacgucg SEQ ID NO: 56 csGsacgUgCAgaggUgAagcgasasgUU 29SEQ ID NO: 57 uscsgcuuCaCCUcugcacguca SEQ ID NO: 58usGsacgUgCAgaggUgAagcgasasgUU 30 SEQ ID NO: 59 uscsgcUuCaCcUcugcacgucaSEQ ID NO: 60 usGsacgUgCAgaggUgAagcgasasgUU 31 SEQ ID NO: 61ususCaCCUcugcacguca SEQ ID NO: 62 usGsacgUgCAgaggUgAagcsgsaU 32SEQ ID NO: 63 ususcaCCUcugcacguca SEQ ID NO: 64usGsacgugcagaggUgAagcsgsaU 33 SEQ ID NO: 65 ususCaCCUcugcacgucaSEQ ID NO: 66 usGsacgUgcagaggUgAagcsgsaU 34 SEQ ID NO: 67ususuaCuAgUGCcaUuuguuca SEQ ID NO: 68 usGsAaCaAauGgcaCuAgUaAascsu 35SEQ ID NO: 69 ususuaCuAgUGCcaUuuguuca SEQ ID NO: 70usGsAaCaAauGgcaCuAgUaAascsuUU 36 SEQ ID NO: 71 ususuacuAgUGCcauuuguucaSEQ ID NO: 72 usGsaacAaAUggcaCuAguaaascsuUU 37 SEQ ID NO: 73ususuaCuAgUgCcauuuguuca SEQ ID NO: 74 usGsaacAaAUggcaCuAguaaascsuUU2′-O-Methyl nucleotides = lower case; 2′-Fluoro nucleotides = UPPERCASE; Phosphorothioate linker = s; Unmodified = UPPER CASE

TABLE 2 Serum HBsAg levels in mice after single subcutaneousadministration (3 mg/kg) of GalNAc conjugated siRNA from Table 1. HBsAgdata expressed as percent of baseline (Day 0) values siRNA Ligand DayDay Day Day Day Day Day Day Number Cpd # 7 14 21 28 42 49 56 70 Saline95.7 118.6 101.0 111.4 115.3 112.2 106.5 1 145 3.1 1.0 22.8 1.3 3.2 7.32 145 1.3 0.5 0.4 0.7 3.4 6.5 5 235 12.7 7.0 9.6 21.3 59.7 74.6 98.8 5233 16.6 8.2 11.0 12.6 24.4 32.2 60.3 5 145 4.3 1.2 1.7 2.4 11.9 24.5 6233 20.1 10.4 10.9 13.5 30.8 46.0 67.5 7 233 20.7 12.4 10.5 13.6 24.946.2 77.0 8 233 18.1 10.5 11.5 12.1 26.0 37.6 64.9 9 145 10.0 2.7 2.03.6 6.8 17.0 10 145 16.7 16.7 16.0 16.7 74.4 97.3 11 233 20.5 14.8 16.023.9 65.2 80.2 12 233 18.4 11.6 12.2 14.1 23.6 67.1 72.6 12 145 5.1 1.11.2 1.0 2.2 4.5 8.2 13 233 20.7 10.1 11.6 13.2 21.1 39.9 72.3 14 23316.5 8.0 11.0 11.8 28.8 48.0 90.0 15 145 6.3 3.5 8.4 11.4 89.7 83.1 16145 4.0 3.4 9.7 14.8 85.1 88.9 17 145 2.4 0.6 0.7 1.1 6.3 15.1 18 2332.5 1.0 1.3 2.6 11.2 24.5 55.6 19 233 1.9 0.8 1.5 2.6 6.5 12.9 23.4 19145 1.7 0.6 0.7 1.4 3.8 7.3 15.0 19 200 1.8 0.9 1.4 2.2 5.4 10.2 27.5 19197 2.0 0.8 1.4 2.1 3.1 8.4 14.2 19 194 2.8 1.8 2.2 4.0 10.7 26.0 37.320 145 2.7 0.5 0.7 1.0 4.7 9.3 11.3 20 215 3.4 1.5 1.7 1.7 1.9 4.5 6.220 194 1.4 0.5 0.3 0.7 1.2 3.0 6.0 20 197 3.4 0.6 1.0 1.3 2.1 4.9 8.2 20212 3.2 0.8 1.0 1.9 2.4 4.9 7.5 20 191 3.3 1.4 1.4 2.1 1.9 1.2 3.4 21215 2.5 1.1 1.9 2.6 3.8 7.8 9.8 22 233 2.5 2.0 3.1 6.1 12.2 30.4 61.9 23215 1.6 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.4 1.0 1.7 24 197 1.9 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.8 1.7 3.2 25197 2.1 2.2 0.9 0.5 0.9 2.0 2.2 27 145 0.3 0.3 1.6 7.4 71.1 100.1 28 14511.4 6.7 7.1 9.6 20.8 27.1 36.7 29 145 2.9 1.7 2.1 3.3 7.9 21.4 18.2 30145 10.0 3.8 3.5 5.9 13.7 19.0 28.8 34 233 13.2 7.4 8.9 16.8 55.2 60.535 233 11.6 8.5 14.0 19.5 58.4 82.0 36 145 11.3 8.5 11.6 12.5 36.6 49.764.7 37 145 27.8 21.6 25.9 31.1 49.9 43.3 64.5 Table 2 identifies thecompound numbers (column 2) and the corresponding oligonucleotide(column 1) for the HBV siRNA conjugates that were tested.

Example 26 Synthesis of Conjugate 320

Step 1. Preparation of Racemic (cis)5-Benzyl-3a,6a-dimethyltetrahydro-1H-furo[3,4-c]pyrrole-1,3(3aH)-dione301

To a cooled solution (0° C.) of 3,4-dimethylfuran-2,5-dione (3 g, 24mmol) and N-benzyl-1-methoxy-N-((trimethylsilyl)methyl)methanamine (7 g,29.8 mmol) in dichloromethane (75 mL) was slowly added trifluoroaceticacid (75 μL). Stir overnight allowing the solution to slowly warm toroom temperature as the ice bath melted. The reaction mixture wasconcentrated to dryness, dissolved in ethyl acetate (100 mL), washedwith saturated sodium bicarbonate (2×100 mL), dried on magnesiumsulfate, filtered and concentrated to dryness. Purification by columnchromatography on silica gel (gradient: 20% ethyl acetate in hexanes to100% ethyl acetate) afforded(3aR,6aS)-5-Benzyl-3a,6a-dimethyltetrahydro-1H-furo[3,4-c]pyrrole-1,3(3aH)-dioneas a yellow oil (3.5 g, 56%).

Step 2. Preparation of Racemic (cis)(1-Benzyl-3,4-dimethylpyrrolidine-3,4-diyl)dimethanol 302

To a cooled (0° C.) solution of(3aR,6aS)-5-Benzyl-3a,6a-dimethyltetrahydro-1H-furo[3,4-c]pyrrole-1,3(3aH)-dione(3.5 g, 13.4 mmol) in anhydrous diethyl ether (50 mL) was added slowlylithium aluminum hydride pellets (1.5 g, 40 mmol) over three portions.The solution was stirred overnight warming to room temperature as theice water bath melted. Upon completion, the reaction was cooled to 0° C.and very slowly quenched with 1.5 mL of 5M NaOH followed by 1.5 mL ofwater. Stir for 30 minutes then add magnesium sulfate and filter. Thefiltrate was concentrated to afford((3R,4S)-1-Benzyl-3,4-dimethylpyrrolidine-3,4-diyl)dimethanol as acolorless oil (2.7 g).

Step 3. Preparation of Racemic (cis)(3,4-Dimethylpyrrolidine-3,4-diyl)dimethanol 303

To a solution of((3R,4S)-1-Benzyl-3,4-dimethylpyrrolidine-3,4-diyl)dimethanol (10 g, 40mmol) in methanol (10 mL) was added 10% palladium on activated charcoalwet (1 g). The solution was stirred vigorously under a hydrogenatmosphere for 16 hours. Upon completion the solution was filteredthrough Celite, and concentrated to dryness to afford((3R,4S)-3,4-Dimethylpyrrolidine-3,4-diyl)dimethanol as a colorlesssolid (5.5 g, 86%).

Step 4. Preparation of Racemic (cis) Methyl10-(3,4-bis(hydroxymethyl)-3,4-dimethylpyrrolidin-1-yl)-10-oxodecanoate304

A solution of 3 (1.3 g, 8.2 mmol) and monomethyl sebacate (1.8 g, 8.2mmol) in CH₂Cl₂ (100 mL) was treated with HBTU (3.41 g, 9.02 mmol) andHunig's base (5.71 mL, 32.8 mmol). After stirring overnight the mixturewas washed with NaHCO₃ (sat. aq.), water and brine, then dried (MgSO₄),filtered and concentrated. The crude material was subjected tochromatography (gradient: 0% CH₃OH—CH₂Cl₂ to 20%) to yield 4 (1.8 g,61%).

Step 5. Preparation of Racemic (cis) Methyl10-(3-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)-methoxy)methyl)-4-(hydroxymethyl)-3,4-dimethylpyrrolidin-1-yl)-10-oxodecanoate305

A solution of 304 (1.8 g, 5.0 mmol) and 4,4′-Dimethoxytrityl chloride(1.7 g, 5.0 mmol) in pyridine (180 mL) was stirred overnight. Thepyridine was then removed under reduced pressure and the crude materialwas subjected to chromatography (gradient: 0% CH₃OH—CH₂Cl₂ to 10%) toyield 5 (1.4 g, 42%) as a yellow oil.

Step 6. Preparation of Racemic (cis) Lithium10-(3-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)-(phenyl)methoxy)methyl)-4-(hydroxymethyl)-3,4-dimethylpyrrolidin-1-yl)-10-oxodecanoate306

To a solution of compound 305 (3.0 g, 4.6 mmol) in THE (50 mL) and water(50 mL) was added lithium hydroxide (121 mg, 5.0 mmol). The solution wasstirred for 4 hours at room temperature then concentrated to remove theTHF. The remaining aqueous solution was freeze dried overnight to afforda pale pink solid (2.9 g, quantitative). Compound 306 was prepared as amixture of two cis-diastereomers.

Scheme 51 Synthesis of Peracetylated Galactosamine 307

D-Galactosamine hydrochloride (250 g, 1.16 mol) in pyridine (1.5 L) wastreated with acetic anhydride (1.25 L, 13.2 mol) over 45 minutes. Afterstirring overnight the reaction mixture was divided into three 1 Lportions. Each 1 L portion was poured into 3 L of ice water and mixedfor one hour. After mixing the solids were filtered off, combined,frozen over liquid nitrogen and then lyophilized for five days to yieldperacetylated galactosamine 7 (369.4 g, 82%) as a white solid. Rf (0.58,10% MeOH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 1 Preparation of Compound 309

A solution of 2-[2-(2-chloroethoxy)]ethanol 308 (100 g, 593 mmol) inwater (1 L) was treated with NaN₃ (77 g, 1.19 mol) and heated (90° C.).After stirring (72 hours) the solution was cooled (RT) and extracted(4×) with CH₂Cl₂. The combined organics were washed with brine, dried(MgSO₄), filtered, concentrated and used without further processing.Compound 9 (88.9 g, 86%) was obtained as a pale yellow oil.

Step 2 Preparation of Compound 310

A solution of 7 (2.76 g, 7.1 mmol) and 309 (1.37 g, 7.8 mmol) in1,2-dichloroethane (40 mL) was treated with Sc(OTf)₃ (174 mg, 0.36 mmol)and heated (85° C.). After stirring (2 hours) the mixture was cooled(RT) and quenched by the addition of TEA (4 mL) and concentrated. Thecrude material was subjected to chromatography to yield 310 (3.03 g,85%) as a pale yellow foam.

Step 3 Preparation of Compound 311

A solution of 310 (3.02 g, 5.99 mmol) and Pd/C (300 mg, 10% Pdloading-wet support) in EtOAc (30 mL) was treated with TFA (576μL, 7.5mmol). The reaction mixture was purged with hydrogen gas (45 min) thenpurged with nitrogen gas (10 min), then filtered through celite. Thefiltrate was concentrated and then subjected to chromatography to yield311 (2.67 g, 75%) as a brown foam.

Step 1. Preparation of Dimethyl5-(2-((2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)amino)acetamido)-isophthalate 312

A solution of dimethyl 5-aminoisophthalate (5 g, 24 mmol), Z-Gly-OH (5g, 24 mmol), EDC (5 g, 26.3 mmol), HOBt (3.6 g, 26.3 mmol), NMM (2.9 mL,26.3 mmol) in DMF (50 mL) was stirred overnight at room temperature.Upon completion, the reaction mixture was diluted with ethyl acetate(250 mL) and washed with each 1M HCl (2×100 mL), saturated sodiumbicarbonate (1×100 mL) and brine (2×100 mL). Dry on magnesium sulfate,filter and concentrate to dryness to afford Dimethyl5-(2-((2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)amino)-acetamido)isophthalate as acolorless solid (7.2 g, 79%).

Step 2. Preparation of5-(2-((2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)amino)acetamido)isophthalic acid 313

To a solution of methyl5-(2-((2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)amino)acetamido)isophthalate (7.2 g) inmethanol (25 mL) and THF (25 mL) was added 1M NaOH (25 mL). The solutionwas stirred at room temperature for 2 hours then concentrated to removeTHE and MeOH. The aqueous solution remaining was diluted with water (75mL), cooled on an ice water bath and acidified to pH=1 with 6M HCl. Thesolid was filtered and washed with water (3×100 mL). The solid wasfreeze dried to afford5-(2-((2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)amino)acetamido)-isophthalic acid (6.9g, quantitative).

Step 1 Preparation of Compound 314

A solution of 313 (2.09 g, 5.6 mmol) and 311 (8.34 g, 14.07 mmol) inCH₂Cl₂ (150 mL) was treated with HBTU (6.4 g, 16.9 mmol) and Hunig'sbase (7.35 mL, 42.2 mmol). After stirring (overnight) the reactionmixture was poured into NaHCO₃ (sat. aq.) then washed with water andbrine, dried (MgSO₄), filtered and concentrated. The crude material wassubjected to chromatography (gradient 1-12% CH₃OH—CH₂Cl₂) to yield 6(3.97 g, 55%) as a pale yellow foam.

Step 2 Preparation of Compound 315

Compound 314 (3.92 g, 3.07 mmol), Pd/C (400 mg, 10% loading-wet support)and trifluoroacetic acid (308 μL, 4 mmol) was purged with H₂. Afterstirring under H₂ (overnight), the mixture was purged with N₂ (15-20min) then filtered through celite and concentrated. The crude materialwas subjected to chromatography to yield 7 (3.36 g, 86%) as a white tocream colored foam.

Step 3 Preparation of Compound 316

Compound 316 was prepared in the same fashion as 314, from Z-glutamicacid (306 mg, 1.09 mmol) and 315 (3.3 g, 2.6 mmol). Yield 1.66 g, 60%.

Step 4 Preparation of Compound 317

Compound 317 was prepared in the same fashion as 315. Yield 1.65 g,Quant.

Step 1 Preparation of Compound 318

A solution of 317 (1.91 g, 0.75 mmol) in CH₂Cl₂ (100 mL) was treatedfirst with Hunig's base (392 μL, 2.25 mmol) then 6 (a mixture of twocis-diastereomers, 509 mg, 0.79 mmol) followed by HBTU (356 mg, 0.94mmol). After stirring (overnight) the solution was poured into NaHCO₃(sat. aq.) then washed with water and brine, dried (MgSO₄), filtered andconcentrated. The crude material was subjected to chromatography toyield 318 (1.19 g, 52%) as a white foam.

Step 2 Preparation of Compound 319

A solution of 318 (1.19 g, 0.39 mmol) in 1,2 dichloroethane (100 mL) wastreated with TEA (542 μL, 3.9 mmol), DMAP (238 mg, 1.95 mmol) andsuccinic anhydride (195 mg, 1.95 mmol) and heated (85° C.). Afterstirring (2.5 hours) the solution was removed from heat and treated withCH₃OH (10 mL) and allowed to stir (1 hour). After stirring the mixturewas poured into NaHCO₃ (sat. aq.) then washed with brine, dried (MgSO₄),filtered and concentrated. The residue obtained was used without furtherprocessing. Yield=1.4 g, Quant.

Step 3 Preparation of Conjugate 320

The succinate 319 was loaded onto 1000 Å LCAA (long chain aminoalkyl)CPG (control pore glass) using standard amide coupling chemistry. Asolution of diisopropylcarbodiimide (52.6 μmol), N-hydroxy succinimide(0.3 mg, 2.6 μmol) and pyridine (10 μL) in anhydrous acetonitrile (0.3mL) was added to 319 (20.6 mg, 8 μmol) in anhydrous dichloromethane (0.2mL). This mixture was added to LCAA CPG (183 mg). The suspension wasgently mixed overnight at room temperature. Upon disappearance of 319(HPLC), the reaction mixture was filtered and the CPG was washed with 1mL of each dichloromethane, acetonitrile, a solution of 5% aceticanhydride/5% N-methylimidazole/5% pyridine in THF, then THF,acetonitrile and dichloromethane. The CPG was then dried overnight underhigh vacuum. Loading was determined by standard DMTr assay by UV/Vis(504 nm) to be 19 μmol/g. The resulting GalNAc loaded CPG solid supportwas employed in automated oligonucleotide synthesis using standardprocedures. Nucleotide deprotection followed by removal from the solidsupport (with concurrent galactosamine acetate deprotection) affordedthe GalNAc-oligonucleotide conjugate 320.

Example 27 Synthesis of Conjugate 520

Step 1. Preparation of Racemic (cis)5-Benzyl-3a,6a-dimethyltetrahydro-1H-furo[3,4-c]pyrrole-1,3(3aH)-dione301

To a cooled solution (0° C.) of 3,4-dimethylfuran-2,5-dione (3 g, 24mmol) and N-benzyl-1-methoxy-N-((trimethylsilyl)methyl)methanamine (7 g,29.8 mmol) in dichloromethane (75 mL) was slowly added trifluoroaceticacid (75 μL). Stir overnight allowing the solution to slowly warm toroom temperature as the ice bath melted. The reaction mixture wasconcentrated to dryness, dissolved in ethyl acetate (100 mL), washedwith saturated sodium bicarbonate (2×100 mL), dried on magnesiumsulfate, filtered and concentrated to dryness. Purification by columnchromatography on silica gel (gradient: 20% ethyl acetate in hexanes to100% ethyl acetate) afforded(3aR,6aS)-5-Benzyl-3a,6a-dimethyltetrahydro-1H-furo[3,4-c]pyrrole-1,3(3aH)-dioneas a yellow oil (3.5 g, 56%).

Step 2. Preparation of Racemic (cis)(1-Benzyl-3,4-dimethylpyrrolidine-3,4-diyl)dimethanol 302

To a cooled (0° C.) solution of(3aR,6aS)-5-Benzyl-3a,6a-dimethyltetrahydro-1H-furo[3,4-c]pyrrole-1,3(3aH)-dione(3.5 g, 13.4 mmol) in anhydrous diethyl ether (50 mL) was added slowlylithium aluminum hydride pellets (1.5 g, 40 mmol) over three portions.The solution was stirred overnight warming to room temperature as theice water bath melted. Upon completion, the reaction was cooled to 0° C.and very slowly quenched with 1.5 mL of 5M NaOH followed by 1.5 mL ofwater. Stir for 30 minutes then add magnesium sulfate and filter. Thefiltrate was concentrated to afford((3R,4S)-1-Benzyl-3,4-dimethylpyrrolidine-3,4-diyl)dimethanol as acolorless oil (2.7 g).

Step 3. Preparation of Racemic (cis)(3,4-Dimethylpyrrolidine-3,4-diyl)dimethanol 303

To a solution of((3R,4S)-1-Benzyl-3,4-dimethylpyrrolidine-3,4-diyl)dimethanol (10 g, 40mmol) in methanol (10 mL) was added 10% palladium on activated charcoalwet (1 g). The solution was stirred vigorously under a hydrogenatmosphere for 16 hours. Upon completion the solution was filteredthrough Celite, and concentrated to dryness to afford((3R,4S)-3,4-Dimethylpyrrolidine-3,4-diyl)dimethanol as a colorlesssolid (5.5 g, 86%).

Step 4. Preparation of Racemic (cis) Methyl10-(3,4-bis(hydroxymethyl)-3,4-dimethylpyrrolidin-1-yl)-10-oxodecanoate304

A solution of 3 (1.3 g, 8.2 mmol) and monomethyl sebacate (1.8 g, 8.2mmol) in CH₂Cl₂ (100 mL) was treated with HBTU (3.41 g, 9.02 mmol) andHunig's base (5.71 mL, 32.8 mmol). After stirring overnight the mixturewas washed with NaHCO₃ (sat. aq.), water and brine, then dried (MgSO₄),filtered and concentrated. The crude material was subjected tochromatography (gradient: 0% CH₃OH—CH₂Cl₂ to 20%) to yield 4 (1.8 g,61%).

Step 5. Preparation of Racemic (cis) Methyl10-(3-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)(phenyl)-methoxy)methyl)-4-(hydroxymethyl)-3,4-dimethylpyrrolidin-1-yl)-10-oxodecanoate305

A solution of 304 (1.8 g, 5.0 mmol) and 4,4′-Dimethoxytrityl chloride(1.7 g, 5.0 mmol) in pyridine (180 mL) was stirred overnight. Thepyridine was then removed under reduced pressure and the crude materialwas subjected to chromatography (gradient: 0% CH₃OH—CH₂Cl₂ to 10%) toyield 5 (1.4 g, 42%) as a yellow oil.

Step 6. Preparation of Racemic (cis) Lithium10-(3-((bis(4-methoxyphenyl)-(phenyl)methoxy)methyl)-4-(hydroxymethyl)-3,4-dimethylpyrrolidin-1-yl)-10-oxodecanoate306

To a solution of compound 305 (3.0 g, 4.6 mmol) in THE (50 mL) and water(50 mL) was added lithium hydroxide (121 mg, 5.0 mmol). The solution wasstirred for 4 hours at room temperature then concentrated to remove theTHF. The remaining aqueous solution was freeze dried overnight to afforda pale pink solid (2.9 g, quantitative). Compound 306 was prepared as amixture of two cis-diastereomers.

Scheme 57 Synthesis of Peracetylated Galactosamine 507

Galactosamine hydrochloride (250 g, 1.16 mol) in pyridine (1.5 L) istreated with acetic anhydride (1.25 L, 13.2 mol) over 45 minutes. Afterstirring overnight the reaction mixture is divided into three 1 Lportions. Each 1 L portion is poured into 3 L of ice water and mixed forone hour. After mixing the solids are filtered off, combined, frozenover liquid nitrogen and then lyophilized for five days to yieldperacetylated galactosamine 507 (369.4 g, 82%) as a white solid. Rf(0.58, 10% MeOH—CH₂Cl₂).

Step 1 Preparation of Compound 509

A solution of 2-[2-(2-chloroethoxy)]ethanol 508 (100 g, 593 mmol) inwater (1 L) is treated with NaN₃ (77 g, 1.19 mol) and heated (90° C.).After stirring (72 hours) the solution is cooled (RT) and extracted (4×)with CH₂Cl₂. The combined organics are washed with brine, dried (MgSO₄),filtered, concentrated and used without further processing. Compound 509(88.9 g, 86%) is obtained as a pale yellow oil.

Step 2 Preparation of Compound 510

A solution of 507 (2.76 g, 7.1 mmol) and 509 (1.37 g, 7.8 mmol) in1,2-dichloroethane (40 mL) is treated with Sc(OTf)₃ (174 mg, 0.36 mmol)and heated (85° C.). After stirring (2 hours) the mixture is cooled (RT)and quenched by the addition of TEA (4 mL) and concentrated. The crudematerial is subjected to chromatography to yield 510 (3.03 g, 85%) as apale yellow foam.

Step 3 Preparation of Compound 511

A solution of 510 (3.02 g, 5.99 mmol) and Pd/C (300 mg, 10% Pdloading-wet support) in EtOAc (30 mL) is treated with TFA (576 μL, 7.5mmol). The reaction mixture is purged with hydrogen gas (45 min) thenpurged with nitrogen gas (10 min), then filtered through celite. Thefiltrate is concentrated and then subjected to chromatography to yield511 (2.67 g, 75%) as a brown foam.

Step 1. Preparation of Dimethyl5-(2-((2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)amino)acetamido)-isophthalate 312

A solution of dimethyl 5-aminoisophthalate (5 g, 24 mmol), Z-Gly-OH (5g, 24 mmol), EDC (5 g, 26.3 mmol), HOBt (3.6 g, 26.3 mmol), NMM (2.9 mL,26.3 mmol) in DMF (50 mL) was stirred overnight at room temperature.Upon completion, the reaction mixture was diluted with ethyl acetate(250 mL) and washed with each 1M HCl (2×100 mL), saturated sodiumbicarbonate (1×100 mL) and brine (2×100 mL). Dry on magnesium sulfate,filter and concentrate to dryness to afford Dimethyl5-(2-((2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)amino)-acetamido)isophthalate as acolorless solid (7.2 g, 79%).

Step 2. Preparation of5-(2-((2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)amino)acetamido)isophthalic Acid 313

To a solution of methyl5-(2-((2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)amino)acetamido)isophthalate (7.2 g) inmethanol (25 mL) and THF (25 mL) was added 1M NaOH (25 mL). The solutionwas stirred at room temperature for 2 hours then concentrated to removeTHE and MeOH. The aqueous solution remaining was diluted with water (75mL), cooled on an ice water bath and acidified to pH=1 with 6M HCl. Thesolid was filtered and washed with water (3×100 mL). The solid wasfreeze dried to afford5-(2-((2-oxo-2-phenyl-1λ²-ethyl)amino)acetamido)-isophthalic acid (6.9g, quantitative).

Step 1 Preparation of Compound 514

A solution of 313 (2.09 g, 5.6 mmol) and 511 (8.34 g, 14.07 mmol) inCH₂Cl₂ (150 mL) is treated with HBTU (6.4 g, 16.9 mmol) and Hunig's base(7.35 mL, 42.2 mmol). After stirring (overnight) the reaction mixture ispoured into NaHCO₃ (sat. aq.) then washed with water and brine, dried(MgSO₄), filtered and concentrated. The crude material is subjected tochromatography (gradient 1-12% CH₃OH—CH₂Cl₂) to yield 6 (3.97 g, 55%) asa pale yellow foam.

Step 2 Preparation of Compound 515

Compound 514 (3.92 g, 3.07 mmol), Pd/C (400 mg, 10% loading-wet support)and trifluoroacetic acid (308 μL, 4 mmol) is purged with H₂. Afterstirring under H₂ (overnight), the mixture is purged with N₂ (15-20 min)then filtered through celite and concentrated. The crude material issubjected to chromatography to yield 7 (3.36 g, 86%) as a white to creamcolored foam.

Step 3 Preparation of Compound 516

Compound 516 is prepared in the same fashion as 514, from Z-glutamicacid (306 mg, 1.09 mmol) and 515 (3.3 g, 2.6 mmol). Yield 1.66 g, 60%.

Step 4 Preparation of Compound 517

Compound 517 is prepared in the same fashion as 515. Yield 1.65 g,Quant.

Step 1 Preparation of Compound 518

A solution of 517 (1.91 g, 0.75 mmol) in CH₂Cl₂ (100 mL) is treatedfirst with Hunig's base (392 μL, 2.25 mmol) then 306 (a mixture of twocis-diastereomers, 509 mg, 0.79 mmol) followed by HBTU (356 mg, 0.94mmol). After stirring (overnight) the solution was poured into NaHCO₃(sat. aq.) then washed with water and brine, dried (MgSO₄), filtered andconcentrated. The crude material is subjected to chromatography to yield518 (1.19 g, 52%) as a white foam.

Step 2 Preparation of Compound 519

A solution of 518 (1.19 g, 0.39 mmol) in 1,2 dichloroethane (100 mL) istreated with TEA (542 μL, 3.9 mmol), DMAP (238 mg, 1.95 mmol) andsuccinic anhydride (195 mg, 1.95 mmol) and heated (85° C.). Afterstirring (2.5 hours) the solution is removed from heat and treated withCH₃OH (10 mL) and allowed to stir (1 hour). After stirring the mixtureis poured into NaHCO₃ (sat. aq.) then washed with brine, dried (MgSO₄),filtered and concentrated. The residue obtained is used without furtherprocessing. Yield=1.4 g, Quant.

Step 3 Preparation of Conjugate 520

The succinate 519 is loaded onto 1000 Å LCAA (long chain aminoalkyl) CPG(control pore glass) using standard amide coupling chemistry. A solutionof diisopropylcarbodiimide (52.6 μmol), N-hydroxy succinimide (0.3 mg,2.6 μmol) and pyridine (10 μL) in anhydrous acetonitrile (0.3 mL) isadded to 519 (20.6 mg, 8 μmol) in anhydrous dichloromethane (0.2 mL).This mixture is added to LCAA CPG (183 mg). The suspension was gentlymixed overnight at room temperature. Upon disappearance of 519 (HPLC),the reaction mixture is filtered and the CPG is washed with 1 mL of eachdichloromethane, acetonitrile, a solution of 5% acetic anhydride/5%N-methylimidazole/5% pyridine in THF, then THF, acetonitrile anddichloromethane. The CPG is then dried overnight under high vacuum.Loading was determined by standard DMTr assay by UV/Vis (504 nm) to be19 μmol/g. The resulting GalNAc loaded CPG solid support is employed inautomated oligonucleotide synthesis using standard procedures.Nucleotide deprotection followed by removal from the solid support (withconcurrent galactosamine acetate deprotection) affords theGalNAc-oligonucleotide conjugate 520.

Example 28. In Vivo Testing of TTR siRNA Conjugates

Compound 320, wherein R² comprises the modified TTR siRNA described inTable 3, was tested for in vivo activity in a wild-type mouse model ofTTR knock-down. In the present example, Compound 320, wherein R²comprises the modified TTR siRNA, is demonstrated as a possibletreatment for the orphan disease of TTR (Transthyretin) amyloidosis. Inthose afflicted with this disease, the misfolding and aggregation of theTransthyretin protein is associated with disease progression. By usingthis siRNA-GalNAc conjugate, the amount of misfolded/aggregated proteinin the patient can be reduced, with a potential result of halting theprogression of the disease. Accordingly, certain embodiments providecompound 320, wherein the R² comprises the modified TTR siRNA, and usesthereof to treat transthyretin amyloidosis.

TABLE 3 Chemically Modified TTR siRNA duplexes siRNA Sense strandSense strand Antisense strand Antisense strand Number SEQ ID NO 5′-3′SEQ ID NO 5′-3′ 40 SEQ ID AsasCaGuGuUCUuGcUcUaUaA SEQ IDusUsaUaGaGcAagaAcAcUgUususu NO: 75 NO: 76 2′-O-Methyl nucleotides= lower case; 2′-Fluoro nucleotides = UPPER CASE; Phosphorothioatelinker = s; Unmodified = UPPER CASE

Both the TTR siRNA sequence and animal model were described by Nair etal., J. Am. Chem. Soc., 36(49), 16958-16961 (2014). All animal-relatedprocedures were conducted according to written operating procedures, inaccordance with Canadian Council on Animal Care (CCAC) Guidelines onGood Animal Practices, and approved by the local Institutional AnimalCare and Use Committee (IACUC).

siRNA treatment: Female C57BL/6 mice (n=4) were administered a single 2mg/kg dose of compound 320 (R² comprises the modified TTR siRNA) once onDay 0 (1 dose per animal) via subcutaneous injection in the scapularregion. One group of animals administered vehicle only (PBS) served ascontrols.

Collections: All animals were test bled at defined time points aftertest article administration (days 2, 4, 7, 9, 14 and 21) to determinemaximum reductions in plasma TTR levels and the duration ofpharmacologic activity.

Analysis: TTR protein levels in plasma samples were determined using theAbnova Prealbumin (Mouse) ELISA kit (Cedar Lane, catalogue numberKA2070) as per the manufacturer's instructions. TTR plasma proteinvalues were calculated for the individual plasma samples and the averageof each group was determined. From these averages, the TTR proteinlevels relative to control (% relative to PBS treated animals) weredetermined.

Results: Results from testing are presented in Table 4. Values represent% TTR protein levels (relative to PBS Control) on Days 2, 4, 7, 9, 14and 21 post treatment.

TABLE 4 Plasma TTR protein levels in mice after single subcutaneousadministration (2 mg/kg) of GalNAc conjugated siRNA from Table 3. TTRprotein data expressed as percent of PBS treated mouse values siRNALigand Day Day Day Day Day Day Number Cpd # 2 4 7 9 14 21 40 320 36.615.7 17.2 17.7 36.9 59.2

Conclusion: Animals treated with Compound 320, wherein R² comprises themodified TTR siRNA described in Table 3, exhibited a marked knockdown oftarget mRNA and protein with maximal knock down of TTR protein occurringbetween days 4 and 9 post subcutaneous injection.

Example. 29. In Vivo Testing of HBV siRNA Conjugates

Chemically modified HBV siRNA described in Table 1 in Example 25,conjugated to GalNAc ligands, were tested for in vivo activity in anestablished mouse model of HBV infection. In the AAV-HBV1.2 C57BL/6mouse model, stable and persistent HBV expression is achieved afterinjection of an adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector encoding anover-genomic length sequence of HBV, leading to hepatic expression ofHBV RNA and proteins and the secretion of viral and sub-viral particlesinto the blood.

The AAV-HBV1.2 construct used in these studies was based on detailsprovided in Dion et al., Journal of Virology, 87(10), 5554-5563 (2013).All animal-related procedures were conducted according to writtenoperating procedures, in accordance with Canadian Council on Animal Care(CCAC) Guidelines on Good Animal Practices, and approved by the localInstitutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC).

Each animal was inoculated with 1E11 vector genomes (VG) of AAV-HBV1.2vector. Prior to treatment, all animals were test bled and serum HBsAglevels determined for individual animals to confirm established HBVexpression.

siRNA treatment: Groups of mice (typically n=5) were administered asingle 3 mg/kg dose of HBV siRNA conjugate once on Day 0 (1 dose peranimal) via subcutaneous injection in the scapular region. One group ofanimals administered vehicle only (saline) served as controls.

Collections: All mice were test bled on Day 0, prior to treatment, andat defined time points after test article administration (for example onstudy days 7, 14, 21, 28, 42, 56, and 70) to determine maximumreductions in serum HBsAg levels and the duration of pharmacologicactivity.

Analysis: HBsAg levels in serum samples were determined using the BioradEIA GS HIBsAg 3.0 kit (BioRad, catalog no. 32591) as per themanufacturer's instructions. Pooled serum from each treatment group wasused to determine the group mean HBsAg levels at individual timepoints.Data was analysed and expressed as HBsAg levels relative topre-treatment baseline (% relative to Day 0).

Results: Results from testing each of the chemically modified HBV siRNAdescribed in Table 1 are presented in Table 5. Values represent % HBsAglevels (relative to Day 0 baseline) on Days 7, 14, 21, 28, 42, 56 and 70post treatment.

TABLE 5 Serum HBsAg levels in mice after single subcutaneousadministration (3 mg/kg) of GalNAc conjugated siRNA from Table 1 inExample 25. HBsAg data expressed as percent of baseline (Day 0) valuessiRNA Ligand Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Number Cpd # 7 14 21 28 42 5670 2 194 7.0 4.1 4.2 5.6 10.1 17.2 29.5 3 194 5.8 2.4 1.8 2.3 4.6 10.612.9 3 191a 1.7 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.5 0.9 2.3 3 320 3.1 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.8 1.63.6 4 194 5.5 3.1 3.2 4.4 6.0 9.5 16.2 20 231 5.3 2.2 1.9 3.4 4.8 9.817.4 20 320 2.6 1.0 1.1 1.3 3.1 6.4 25 191a 1.9 0.2 0.2 0.3 0.5 1.1 1.825 320 1.1 0.1 0.3 0.4 1.4 2.9 3.5 26 194 10.4 3.2 2.7 3.0 4.0 6.3 12.331 194 13.3 7.0 8.0 11.7 17.7 25.6 36.7 32 194 13.7 5.7 8.2 11.6 16.625.0 46.5 33 194 14.4 8.0 10.8 14.4 24.3 41.8 65.2

Each of the 13 compounds tested caused serum HBV surface antigenreduction after a single dose of subcutaneously-administered treatment,with maximum effect obtained at Day 14 or 21. The four compounds showingthe greatest reductions were compound 191a, wherein the oligonucleotidecomprised siRNA 3 or 25, and compound 320, wherein R² comprised siRNA 3or 25. These four compounds were notable for a more rapid reduction(≥97%) at the first time point (Day 7), greater maximal reduction(≥99%), and a more sustained reductive effect (still ≥97% at Day 56, 8weeks after treatment).

1-3. (canceled)
 4. A double stranded siRNA molecule selected from thegroup consisting of siRNA 1 (SEQ ID NO:1 and 2), 2 (SEQ ID NO:3 and 4),3 (SEQ ID NO:5 and 6), 4 (SEQ ID NO:7 and 8), 5 (SEQ ID NO:9 and 10), 6(SEQ ID NO:11 and 12), 7 (SEQ ID NO:13 and 14), 8 (SEQ ID NO:15 and 16),9 (SEQ ID NO:17 and 18), 10 (SEQ ID NO:19 and 20), 11 (SEQ ID NO:21 and22), 12 (SEQ ID NO:23 and 24), 13 (SEQ ID NO:25 and 26), 14 (SEQ IDNO:27 and 28), 15 (SEQ ID NO:29 and 30), 16 (SEQ ID NO:31 and 32), 17(SEQ ID NO:33 and 34), 18 (SEQ ID NO:35 and 36), 19 (SEQ ID NO:37 and38), 20 (SEQ ID NO:39 and 40), 21 (SEQ ID NO:41 and 42), 22 (SEQ IDNO:43 and 44), 23 (SEQ ID NO:45 and 46), 24 (SEQ ID NO:47 and 48), 25(SEQ ID NO:49 and 50), 26 (SEQ ID NO:51 and 52), 27 (SEQ ID NO:53 and54), 28 (SEQ ID NO:55 and 56), 29 (SEQ ID NO:57 and 58), 30 (SEQ IDNO:59 and 60), 31 (SEQ ID NO:61 and 62), 32 (SEQ ID NO:63 and 64), 33(SEQ ID NO:65 and 66), 34 (SEQ ID NO:67 and 68), 35 (SEQ ID NO:69 and70), 36 (SEQ ID NO:71 and 72) and 37 (SEQ ID NO:73 and 74). 5-6.(canceled)
 7. A compound of formula (I):

wherein: R¹ a is targeting ligand; L¹ is absent or a linking group; L²is absent or a linking group; R² is a double stranded siRNA moleculeselected from the double stranded siRNA molecules of claim 4; the ring Ais absent, a 3-20 membered cycloalkyl, a 5-20 membered aryl, a 5-20membered heteroaryl, or a 3-20 membered heterocycloalkyl; each R^(A) isindependently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, hydroxy,CN, F, Cl, Br, I, —C₁₋₂ alkyl-OR^(B), C₁₋₁₀ alkyl C₂₋₁₀ alkenyl, andC₂₋₁₀ alkynyl; wherein the C₁₋₁₀ alkyl C₂₋₁₀ alkenyl, and C₂₋₁₀ alkynylare optionally substituted with one or more groups independentlyselected from halo, hydroxy, and C₁₋₃ alkoxy; R^(B) is hydrogen, aprotecting group, a covalent bond to a solid support, or a bond to alinking group that is bound to a solid support; and n is 0, 1, 2, 3, 4,5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10; or a salt thereof. 8-46. (canceled)
 47. Thecompound of claim 7, or a salt thereof that is selected from the groupconsisting of:

wherein Q is -L¹-R¹; and R′ is C₁₋₉ alkyl, C₂₋₉ alkenyl or C₂₋₉ alkynyl;wherein the C₁₋₉ alkyl, C₂₋₉ alkenyl or C₂₋₉ alkynyl are optionallysubstituted with halo or hydroxyl; and salts thereof.
 48. (canceled) 49.The compound of claim 7 or a salt thereof that is selected from thegroup consisting of:

and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein R² is a doublestranded siRNA molecule selected from the double stranded siRNAmolecules of claim
 4. 50. A pharmaceutical composition comprising acompound as described in claim 7, or a pharmaceutically acceptable saltthereof, and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.
 51. A method todeliver a siRNA to the liver of an animal comprising administering acompound of formula I as described in claim 7 or a pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt thereof, to the animal. 52-73. (canceled)
 74. A compoundof formula (XX):

wherein: R¹ a is targeting ligand; L¹ is absent or a linking group; L²is absent or a linking group; R² is a double stranded siRNA moleculeselected from the double stranded siRNA molecules of claim 4; B isdivalent and is selected from the group consisting of:

wherein: each R′ is independently C₁₋₉ alkyl, C₂₋₉ alkenyl or C₂₋₉alkynyl; wherein the C₁₋₉ alkyl, C₂₋₉ alkenyl or C₂₋₉ alkynyl areoptionally substituted with halo or hydroxyl; the valence marked with *is attached to L¹ or is attached to R¹ if L¹ is absent; and the valencemarked with ** is attached to L² or is attached to R² if L² is absent;or a salt thereof. 75-80. (canceled)
 81. The compound of claim 74 or asalt thereof, wherein the targeting ligand R¹ comprises 4 saccharides.82. The compound of claim 74 or a salt thereof, wherein the targetingmoiety R¹ has the following formula:

wherein: B¹ is a trivalent group comprising about 1 to about 20 atomsand is covalently bonded to L¹, T¹, and T². B² is a trivalent groupcomprising about 1 to about 20 atoms and is covalently bonded to T¹, T³,and T⁴; B³ is a trivalent group comprising about 1 to about 20 atoms andis covalently bonded to T², T⁵, and T⁶; T¹ is absent or a linking group;T² is absent or a linking group; T³ is absent or a linking group; T⁴ isabsent or a linking group; T⁵ is absent or a linking group; and T⁶ isabsent or a linking group. 83-149. (canceled)
 150. The compound of claim82 or a salt thereof that is selected from the group consisting of:

and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, wherein R² is a doublestranded siRNA molecule selected from the double stranded siRNAmolecules of claim
 4. 151. The compound,

or a salt thereof, wherein R² is a double stranded siRNA moleculeselected from the double stranded siRNA molecules of claim
 4. 152.(canceled)
 153. A compound of formula:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R² is a doublestranded siRNA molecule selected from the double stranded siRNAmolecules of claim
 4. 154. A compound of formula:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R² is a doublestranded siRNA molecule selected from the double stranded siRNAmolecules of claim
 4. 155. A compound of formula:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R² is a doublestranded siRNA molecule selected from the double stranded siRNAmolecules of claim
 4. 156. A compound of formula:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R² is a doublestranded siRNA molecule selected from the double stranded siRNAmolecules of claim
 4. 157. A compound of formula:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R² is a doublestranded siRNA molecule selected from the double stranded siRNAmolecules of claim
 4. 158. A compound of formula:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R² is a doublestranded siRNA molecule selected from the double stranded siRNAmolecules of claim
 4. 159. A compound of formula:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R² is a doublestranded siRNA molecule selected from the double stranded siRNAmolecules of claim
 4. 160. A compound of formula:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R² is a doublestranded siRNA molecule selected from the double stranded siRNAmolecules of claim
 4. 161. A compound of formula:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R² is a doublestranded siRNA molecule selected from the double stranded siRNAmolecules of claim
 4. 162. A compound of formula:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R² is a doublestranded siRNA molecule selected from the double stranded siRNAmolecules of claim
 4. 163. A compound of formula:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R² is a doublestranded siRNA molecule selected from the double stranded siRNAmolecules of claim
 4. 164. A compound of formula:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R² is a doublestranded siRNA molecule selected from the double stranded siRNAmolecules of claim
 4. 165. A compound of formula:

or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein R² is a doublestranded siRNA molecule selected from the double stranded siRNAmolecules of claim
 4. 166-174. (canceled)
 175. A compound of formula(Ia):

wherein: L² is absent or a linking group; R² is a nucleic acid; the ringA is absent, a 3-20 membered cycloalkyl, a 5-20 membered aryl, a 5-20membered heteroaryl, or a 3-20 membered heterocycloalkyl; each R^(A) isindependently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, hydroxy,CN, F, Cl, Br, I, —C₁₋₂ alkyl-OR^(B), C₁₋₁₀ alkyl C₂₋₁₀ alkenyl, andC₂₋₁₀ alkynyl; wherein the C₁₋₁₀ alkyl C₂₋₁₀ alkenyl, and C₂₋₁₀ alkynylare optionally substituted with one or more groups independentlyselected from halo, hydroxy, and C₁₋₃ alkoxy; R^(B) is hydrogen, aprotecting group, a covalent bond to a solid support, or a bond to alinking group that is bound to a solid support; and n is 0, 1, 2, 3, 4,5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10; or a salt thereof.
 176. A compound of formula(XX):

wherein: L¹ is absent or a linking group; L² is absent or a linkinggroup; R² is a nucleic acid; B is divalent and is selected from thegroup consisting of:

wherein: each R′ is independently C₁₋₉ alkyl, C₂₋₉ alkenyl or C₂₋₉alkynyl; wherein the C₁₋₉ alkyl, C₂₋₉ alkenyl or C₂₋₉ alkynyl areoptionally substituted with halo or hydroxyl; the valence marked with *is attached to L or is attached to R¹ if L¹ is absent; and the valencemarked with ** is attached to L² or is attached to R² if L² is absent;or a salt thereof. 177-183. (canceled)
 184. The compound,

or a salt thereof wherein R² is a nucleic acid.
 185. The compound,

or a salt thereof wherein R² is a nucleic acid.
 186. The compound,

or a salt thereof wherein R² is a nucleic acid.
 187. The compound ofclaim 175, wherein R² is a double stranded siRNA molecule selected fromthe double stranded siRNA molecules of claim
 4. 188. A pharmaceuticalcomposition comprising a compound as described in claim 175, or apharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and a pharmaceuticallyacceptable carrier. 189-191. (canceled)
 192. A compound of formula I asdescribed in claim 7, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, foruse in medical therapy.
 193. A compound of formula I as described inclaim 7, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, for theprophylactic or therapeutic treatment of a hepatitis B virus infectionin an animal.
 194. The use of a compound of formula I as described inclaim 7, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, to prepare amedicament for treating a hepatitis B virus infection in an animal. 195.(canceled)